AU2020230048B2

AU2020230048B2 - Devices and methods for treating edema

Info

Publication number: AU2020230048B2
Application number: AU2020230048A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Eamon Brady; Or INBAR; Ronan Keating; Shahaf MARMUR; Gerry Mccaffrey; Yaacov Nitzan; Reed WILLISTON
Original assignee: White Swell Medical Ltd
Current assignee: White Swell Medical Ltd
Priority date: 2019-02-26
Filing date: 2020-02-26
Publication date: 2025-06-26
Anticipated expiration: 2040-02-26
Also published as: CN119034099A; IL321973A; EP3930600A4; IL285734A; WO2020174285A3; EP3930600A2; WO2020174285A2; JP2022523205A; IL285734B1; JP2024177491A; IL285734B2; CA3135225A1; AU2020230048A1; AU2025238031A1; CN113727752A; JP7573288B2; CN113727752B

Abstract

The disclosure relates to devices and methods for the treatment of edema that uses an impeller with a balloon that may be mounted on the impeller housing. The invention provides devices and methods for treatment of edema that use an indwelling catheter with an impeller to lower pressure at an outlet of a lymphatic duct and a balloon on the impeller to guide and to restrict blood flow. The balloon restricts return flow from the jugular and guides that flow into the impeller cage. By funneling the flow into the impeller cage, a rate of flow down the vessel may be increased, resulting in a lateral pressure decrease effecting the lymphatic outlet. Because the lymphatic outlet is subject to a pressure decrease, fluids in the lymphatic system drain to the outlet and into the circulatory system.

Description

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING EDEMA

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/810,653, filed February 26, 2019; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/810,658, filed February 26, 2019; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/810,660, filed February 26, 2019; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/810,668, filed February 26, 2019; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/810,672, filed February 26, 2019, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The disclosure relates to devices and methods for the treatment of edema.

Background Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump sufficiently to maintain

blood flow to meet the body's needs. A person suffering heart failure may experience shortness

of breath, exhaustion, and swollen limbs. Heart failure is a common and potentially fatal

condition. In 2015 it affected about 40 million people globally and around 2% of adults overall.

As many as 10% of people over the age of 65 are susceptible to heart failure.

In heart failure, the pressures in the heart ventricles and atria are excessively elevated. As

a result, the heart works harder to eject blood, leading to a buildup of blood pressure, which may

result in edema forming within interstitial compartments of the body. Edema refers to the

abnormal accumulation of fluid in tissues of the body and results when elevated blood pressure

prevents lymphatic fluid from draining from the interstitium. The additional work of the heart,

with time, weakens and remodels the heart thus further reducing the ability of the heart to

function properly. The fluid accumulation leads to dyspnea and acute decompensated heart

failure (ADHF) hospitalization. Those conditions may result in severe health consequences

including death. including death.

It is an object of the invention to address at least one shortcoming of the prior art 03 Jun 2025 2020230048 03 Jun 2025

It is an object of the invention to address at least one shortcoming of the prior art

and/or provide and/or provide a useful a useful alternative. alternative.

Summary Summary In one aspect of the invention there is provided a device comprising a catheter In one aspect of the invention there is provided a device comprising a catheter

comprising a proximal comprising a proximal portion portion and a and a distal distal portion; portion; an impeller an impeller housingtoattached housing attached to the distal the distal

portion of of the the catheter catheterwith withan animpeller impellerdisposed disposed therein; therein;and andan anexpandable expandable member aligned 2020230048

portion member aligned

over an outside over an outside of of the the impeller impeller housing, housing, wherein an exterior wherein an exterior surface surface of ofthe theexpandable expandable

member is physically coupled directly to the exterior surface of the impeller housing, and member is physically coupled directly to the exterior surface of the impeller housing, and

whereinthe wherein the expandable expandablemember member expands expands and and directs directs fluid fluid flow flow to an to an inletofofthe inlet theimpeller impeller housing. housing.

In another aspect of the invention there is provided a device comprising a catheter In another aspect of the invention there is provided a device comprising a catheter

with a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion dimensioned for insertion into with a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion dimensioned for insertion into

aa lumen of aa patient lumen of patient and and comprising comprising aa housing housinghaving havinga apump pump disposed disposed within within thethe housing; housing;

and ananexpandable and expandablemember member connected connected to the to the pump, pump, wherein wherein the expandable the expandable member, member, when when not expanded, not is disposed expanded, is aroundthe disposed around theproximal proximalportion portionofofthe the housing housingsuch suchthat thatan anexterior exterior surface ofthe surface of theexpandable expandable member member is physically is physically coupledtodirectly coupled directly to ansurface an exterior exterior surface of the of the

housing, and housing, and wherein whereinwhen when expanded, expanded, thethe expandable expandable member member comprises comprises a toroidal a toroidal shape,shape,

whereinaa proximal wherein proximalsurface surfaceofofthe the toroidal toroidal shape shape and an inner and an inner surface surface of of the the housing housing form form aa

smooth continuoussurface smooth continuous surfacethat thatfunnels funnelsfluid, fluid, under powerofofpump, under power pump,through through thehousing. the housing. Theinvention The inventionprovides providesdevices devicesand andmethods methodsforfor treatment treatment ofof edema edema that that useuse an an

indwelling catheter indwelling catheter with with an impeller an impeller to lower to lower pressure pressure at anofoutlet at an outlet of a lymphatic a lymphatic duct and a duct and a

balloon on the impeller to guide and to restrict blood flow. The balloon restricts return flow balloon on the impeller to guide and to restrict blood flow. The balloon restricts return flow

from thejugular from the jugularandand guides guides that that flow flow intoimpeller into the the impeller cage. cage. By By funneling funneling the the the flow into flow into the impeller cage,a arate impeller cage, rateofofflow flow down down the vessel the vessel may bemay be increased, increased, resulting resulting in apressure in a lateral lateral pressure decrease effecting decrease effecting thethe lymphatic lymphatic outlet. outlet. Because Because the lymphatic the lymphatic outlet is outlet subjectisto subject to a pressure a pressure

decrease, fluidsininthe decrease, fluids thelymphatic lymphatic system system drain drain to theto the outlet outlet and and into theinto the circulatory circulatory system. system.

Theseeffects These effects can can be be optimized byhaving optimized by havingthe theballoon balloondisposed disposedononororaround aroundthe theimpeller impellercage cage and, and, in in some embodiments, some embodiments, theballoon the balloonmaymay be be connected connected directly directly thethe impeller impeller cage, cage,

surrounding surrounding thethe cage, cage, and and forming forming a that a torus torusfunnels that funnels fluid fluid flow flow into the into the cage. impeller impeller A cage. A shape shape ofofa aballoon balloonin in a deployed a deployed statestate directs directs and facilitates and facilitates blood blood flow flow into an into inletan of inlet an of an impeller. By using the impeller in conjunction with the balloon on the catheter, the ability of impeller. By using the impeller in conjunction with the balloon on the catheter, the ability of

the device to lower pressure at the lymphatic outlet is optimized. the device to lower pressure at the lymphatic outlet is optimized.

(46092368_1):KRM (46092368_1):KRM

2a 2a

The geometry geometryofofthe thecombined combined impeller cage andand toroidal balloon employ flowflow 03 Jun 2025 2020230048 03 Jun 2025

The impeller cage toroidal balloon employ

dynamics dynamics totodrain drain the the lymphatic lymphaticsystem. system.The Theimpeller impellercage cageinincombination combination with with thethe balloon balloon

creates creates aa local localconstriction constriction(or(orchoke) choke) in the in the cross-sectional cross-sectional area area of ofthrough flow flow through the vessel the vessel

(e.g., (e.g., the the innominate vein). innominate vein). This This flowflow constriction constriction results results in a Venturi in a Venturi effect,effect, in fluid in which which fluid pressure is reduced as applicable to the outlet of the lymphatic duct. Due to the pressure pressure is reduced as applicable to the outlet of the lymphatic duct. Due to the pressure

decrease experiencedbybythe decrease experienced thelymphatic lymphaticoutlet, outlet, lymph lymphdrains drainsfrom fromthe thelymphatic lymphaticsystem system to to the the

circulatory circulatory system. system. Thus devices and and methods methodsofofthe thedisclosure disclosureuse useaa balloon balloonmounted mountedtoto anan 2020230048

Thus devices

impeller impeller totoexploit exploitthethelaws laws of of fluid fluid mechanics mechanics to drain to drain lymph. lymph. Since operating Since operating an impelleran in impeller in

an an innominate veinnear innominate vein nearaa lymphatic lymphaticoutlet outlet with with aa balloon balloon connected connectedtotothe the impeller impeller cage cage is is effective effective to toreduce reduce pressure pressure at atthe thelymphatic lymphaticoutlet outletand anddrain drainlymph, lymph,devices devicesand and methods of methods of

the invention the invention are are useful useful to torelieve relievethethesymptoms symptoms of of edema. Accordingly,the edema. Accordingly, the invention invention provides methods provides methodsand anddevices devicesthat thatuse useaaballoon balloonmounted mountedto to anan impellercage impeller cage toto treatedema treat edema and congestive and congestive heart heart failure. failure.

In certain aspects, In certain aspects,the thedisclosure disclosure provides provides a device a device for treating for treating edema.edema. The device The device

includes includes a acatheter catheterhaving having a proximal a proximal portion portion and a portion, and a distal distal portion, an impeller an impeller housing housing

attached attached totothe thedistal distalportion portionof of thethe catheter catheter withwith an impeller an impeller disposed disposed therein,therein, and an and an

expandable member expandable member (e.g.,a aballoon) (e.g., balloon)aligned alignedover overananoutside outsideofofthe the impeller impeller housing. housing.An An exterior exterior surface surface of ofthe theexpandable expandable member may member may be be physically physically coupled coupled to to an an exteriorsurface exterior surface of the impeller of the impellerhousing. housing.

(46092368_1):KRM (46092368_1):KRM

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

Preferably, the exterior surface of the expandable member is physically coupled directly to the

exterior surface of the impeller housing, i.e., without any membrane, sheath, or device between

the exterior surface of the expandable member and the exterior surface of the impeller housing.

The expandable member may surround the impeller housing.

Where the expandable member is a balloon, the balloon may inflatable and may surround

the impeller housing. In some embodiments, the impeller housing comprises a metal and a

portion of the expandable member is fixed to a surface of the metal by an adhesive. At least a

portion of the surface of the metal may be impregnated with a polymer to promote bonding to the

adhesive. Embodiments of the device may include a motor housing connected to the proximal

portion of the catheter with a motor disposed within the motor housing. A drive cable may

extend through the catheter from the motor to the impeller with an inflation lumen extending

along the catheter to the expandable member. Related embodiments provide a method of using

the device for treating edema. The method includes inserting the distal portion of the catheter

into an innominate vein of a patient, operating the impeller, and expanding the expandable

member to thereby decrease pressure at a lymphatic duct.

Aspects of the invention provide an edema treatment device that includes a catheter with

a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion dimensioned for insertion into a lumen

of a patient and comprising a pump, and an expandable member connected to the pump. When

expanded, the expandable member comprises a toroidal shape, in which a proximal surface of the

toroidal shape directs fluid into the pump. Preferably an inner radius of the toroidal shape is

substantially the same as a radius of the proximal end of the pump. The expandable member may

include an inflatable balloon mounted on the pump. In some embodiments, the pump comprises

an impeller housing with an impeller therein, with the balloon mounted around at least a portion

of a proximal end of the impeller housing. In certain embodiments, the impeller housing has a

distal portion and a proximal portion, in which an external diameter of the proximal portion is

smaller than an external diameter of the distal portion, such that the expandable member, when

not expanded, is disposed around the proximal portion of the impeller housing. The impeller may

have one or more blades on a shaft, with a radius measured from an axis of the impeller to an

outer edge of the blades decreasing from a distal to a proximal portion of the impeller. The outer

edge of each blade may include a dogleg defining a step-down in radius located adjacent a

transition between the distal portion and the proximal portion of the impeller housing. In

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

preferred embodiments, the distal portion of the impeller housing has outlets and the impeller

shaft flares outwards near a distal end of the impeller such that when the impeller is rotated, the

impeller pumps blood through the impeller housing and out of the one or more outlets.

The pump may include an impeller disposed within an impeller housing and the

expandable member may include an inflatable balloon connected to an exterior surface of the

impeller housing. In certain embodiments, when the balloon is inflated, it defines a torus. When

the balloon is inflated, a surface of the torus may be attached to a surface of the impeller housing.

Preferably, when the expandable member is not expanded, the distal portion of the catheter may

be passed through a 12 Fr introducer sheath.

Aspects of the disclosure provide a device and associated method that use a restrictor for

compensation to pressure changes resulting from flow induced by a pump. In the restrictor for

flow compensation aspects, the invention provides a method for treating edema. The method

includes operating a pump to increase flow through an innominate vein of a patient and-

subsequent to the operating step-deploying a restrictor upstream of the pump to thereby restrict

flow from a jugular vein to the innominate vein in order to balance pressure downstream of the

pump. The method may include operating the pump and then restricting the flow once the

increased flow through the innominate vein affects pressure in the jugular vein. The method may

further include sensing, with a pressure sensor, an increase in pressure in the jugular vein that

results from the increased flow and restricting the flow in response to sensing the increased

pressure in the jugular vein. Restriction of the flow may be adjusted according to the sensed

pressure. Preferably, the method includes placing a device comprising the pump within

vasculature of a patient prior to the operating step. The device comprises a catheter dimensioned

to be at least partially implanted within the vasculature and the pump comprises an impeller

assembly disposed at a distal portion of the catheter. In some embodiments, a proximal portion

of the catheter is connected to a motor housing and the device includes a pressure sensor and a

deployable restrictor attached to the catheter proximal to the pump. Preferably, the restrictor

includes an inflatable balloon and restricting the flow includes inflating the restrictor. The

sensing may be performed using a computer system communicatively connected to the pressure

sensor. The inflation of the restrictor may be periodically or continually adjusted according to the

sensed pressure.

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184 PCT/IB2020/000184

Other aspects of the invention provide a method for treating edema. The method includes

operating a pump to increase flow through an innominate vein of a patient, sensing a pressure

change in a jugular vein of the patient that results from the increased flow, and adjusting a

restrictor to restrict flow from the jugular vein to the innominate vein based on the sensed

pressure. The method may further include inserting a catheter into the innominate vein, wherein

the catheter comprises the pump, a pressure sensor, and the restrictor. Preferably, the restrictor

includes an inflatable balloon and adjusting the restrictor includes at least partially inflating the

balloon. The sensing may be performed using a pressure sensor. The method may include

periodically or continually adjusting inflation of the restrictor according to the sensed pressure.

Preferably, the method includes adjusting the inflation in order to balance pressure downstream

of the pump. Optionally the pump comprises an impeller assembly disposed at a distal portion of

the catheter. A proximal portion of the catheter may be connected to a motor housing having a

motor therein operably coupled to the impeller assembly. In some embodiments, the catheter is

coupled to a computer system operable to read the pressure or control the inflation.

Aspects of the invention provide a purge-free system, device, and method for treatment

of edema. For example, aspects provide a purge-free device that includes a catheter with a

proximal portion and a distal portion, an impeller connected to the distal portion of the catheter, a

motor connected to the proximal portion of the catheter, a drive cable extending through the

catheter from the motor to the impeller, and an impermeable sleeve extending through the

catheter over the drive cable. The sleeve features a distal seal at the impeller and a proximal seal

at the motor such that fluid external to the sleeve is prevented from entering the sleeve and

contacting the drive cable. The sleeve and at least the distal seal exclude fluid from the drive

cable. cable. Either Eitherseal (or(or seal both) may include both) one orone may include moreorO-rings. The device more O-rings. maydevice The includemay a first include a first

lumen and a second lumen, both extending through the catheter, in which the first and second

lumen have respective first and second proximal ends accessible outside of the motor housing.

Preferably the first lumen and the second lumen are symmetrically disposed about the drive cable

to impart balance to the device. The catheter preferably does not include a purge system or a

purge fluid. In some embodiments, the impeller sits in an impeller housing and the device also

has has at atleast leastone expandable one member expandable connected member to the to connected distal the portion distal of the catheter. portion of the The catheter. The

expandable member may be connected to the impeller housing, and the device may also include

a second expandable member disposed along the catheter. Preferably, the first expandable

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member comprises a toroidal balloon connected directly to a surface of the impeller housing. The

device may also include at least one pressure sensor disposed along the catheter proximal to the

impeller.

In some embodiments, the proximal seal comprises a fitting between the impermeable

sleeve and a portion of the impeller, such that the fitting excludes fluids and allows the impeller

and drive cable to rotate within the device.

A related aspect provides a method using the purge-free device. The purge-free device

may be used in a method of treating edema. The method includes inserting into an innominate

vein of a patient a distal portion of a catheter and driving an impeller connected to the distal

portion of the catheter by means of motor at a proximal portion of the catheter. The motor is

connected to the impeller by a drive cable extending through the catheter. Driving the impeller

decreases pressure at a lymphatic duct. An impermeable sleeve extends through the catheter over

the drive cable such that body fluid external to the impermeable sleeve is prevented from

entering the impermeable sleeve and contacting the drive cable. The method may further

comprise inflating a restrictor disposed along the distal portion of the catheter to restrict flow

from a jugular vein into the innominate vein, wherein the inflating uses an inflation lumen

extending through the catheter outside of the impermeable sleeve. The decreased pressure at a

lymphatic duct promotes drainage from a lymphatic system into a circulatory system.

Preferably, the impermeable sleeve has a proximal seal at a housing of the motor and a

distal seal at the impeller. The proximal seal prevents the blood and bodily fluid from escaping

the patient through the motor housing or the proximal portion of the catheter. The distal seal may

include a fitting between the impermeable sleeve and a portion of the impeller, in which the

fitting excludes fluids and allows the impeller and drive cable to rotate within the device. The

impermeable sleeve may be made of a polymer such as Teflon.

The method may include inflating at least one balloon disposed along the catheter by

means of an inflation lumen having a proximal end accessible outside of the motor housing while

the distal portion of the catheter is inserted into the innominate vein. Blood and bodily fluid is

preferably excluded from the drive cable without the use of a purge fluid or purge system.

Other aspects of the disclosure related to methods and devices that use and deliver an

anticoagulant to promote effective operation of a device of treatment of edema. For example,

aspects of the disclosure provide a device that includes an intravascular pump with built-in

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delivery mechanism for an anticoagulant (i.e., to deliver the anticoagulant to moving parts of the

pump). Thus the invention provides an edema treatment device that includes a catheter, an

impeller assembly mounted at a distal portion of the catheter, and a medicament lumen extending

through the catheter and terminating substantially at an inlet of the impeller assembly such that a

medicament released from the medicament lumen flows through the inlet and impeller assembly.

Preferably, the catheter and impeller assembly are dimensioned for insertion through a jugular

vein of a patient. The device may further include a reservoir in fluid communication with the

medicament lumen. The impeller assembly may comprise an impeller housing with an impeller

rotatably disposed therein. The device may include a motor connected to a proximal end of the

catheter and operably connected to the impeller via a drive cable extending through the catheter.

Preferably, the port is located at the impeller housing, proximal to the impeller.

In some embodiments, the catheter comprises a tube with a drive cable extending

therethrough, with a cap connected around a terminal portion of the tube. The impeller housing is

mounted to the cap by a plurality of struts to define inlets into the impeller housing. The cap

seals a terminus of the flexible tube to a shaft of the impeller, and the port may be located in the

cap. The impeller housing may have one or more outlets around a distal portion of the impeller,

such that operation of the impeller within a blood vessel drives blood into the impeller assembly

via the inlets and out of the impeller assembly via the outlets.

The device may include an anticoagulant (e.g., tirofiban, heparin, warfarin, rivaroxaban,

dabigatran, apixaban, edoxaban, enoxaparin, or fondaparinux) in the reservoir. When the device

is inserted into a blood vessel of a patient and the impeller is operated, the anticoagulant is

released from the port in the impeller cage and the released anticoagulant mixes with blood and

washes over the rotating impeller.

Related aspects of the invention provide a method for treating edema. The method

includes operating a pump to increase flow through an innominate vein of a patient and releasing

an anticoagulant at or adjacent an inlet of the pump. The pump may include an impeller in a cage

at a distal portion of a catheter and the anticoagulant may be released from a port in or adjacent a

proximal portion of the cage. Optionally, a proximal end of the catheter terminates at a housing

comprising a motor, with the motor operably coupled to the impeller by a drive cable extending

through the catheter. The catheter may include a medicament lumen extending therethrough and

terminating at the port. The method may include the steps of providing the anticoagulant in a

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reservoir in fluid communication with the medicament lumen; inserting the catheter into

vasculature of the patient to position the impeller in the innominate vein; operating the motor to

drive the impeller; and washing the anticoagulant over the impeller by releasing the

anticoagulant from the port. Preferably, operating the pump decreases pressure at a lymphatic

duct, thereby draining lymph from a lymphatic system of the patient.

In certain embodiments, the pump includes an impeller on a distal portion of a catheter

and the anticoagulant is released from a port at a proximal portion of the impeller.

By the release of the anticoagulant, clotting or thrombosis is prevented from interfering

with operation of the impeller. Optionally, the method may include restricting flow from a

jugular vein to the innominate vein to thereby promote flow from a subclavian vein to the

innominate vein.

The invention provides devices and methods useful for treating edema by means of an

indwelling catheter that is placed in a blood vessel of a patient and used to pump blood to cause a

decrease in pressure at an outlet of a lymphatic duct. The catheter pumps blood by means of an

impeller but is purge-free in that the catheter does not include a system for purging or flushing

catheter components with a purge fluid. The purge-free catheter avoids blood-related mechanical

complications such as clotting or thrombosis by means of an impermeable sleeve or shroud that

protects moving parts of the impeller drive system. For example, a drive cable to the impeller

may be protected by an impermeably sleeve that is closed a distal end by a distal seal near the

impeller and may also be closed at a proximal end (e.g., outside of the patient) by a proximal

seal, such as by O-rings fitted to a motor housing and/or catheter handle used to navigate the

impeller into place and drive the impeller. The impermeable sleeve or shroud and appropriate

seals exclude blood and bodily fluid from entering operable parts of the catheter system. Thus

the impermeable sleeve or shroud and any associated seal provide a purge-free system that

maintains smooth and reliable operation of the catheter by excluding blood or bodily fluid from

operable parts of the catheter.

Edema may be treated by accessing a blood vessel such as a jugular vein and navigating

the catheter therethrough. The catheter is navigated to position the impeller near an outlet of a

lymphatic duct. For example, the impeller may be located in an innominate vein. A substantial

length of the catheter as well as the impeller may be positioned to sit within blood vessels and

thus may be surrounded by, and operating within, blood. To avoid problems that would result

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from blood clotting within moving parts of the impeller or hemolysis induced by those moving

parts, the catheter includes a sealed sleeve or shroud that excludes blood from the impeller and

associated moving parts. The catheter may further include a proximal seal at the external motor

housing the prevent blood from backing up and flowing outside of the patient. The sealed sleeve

or shroud is much simpler in operation and maintenance than elaborate purge systems that use a

purge fluid delivered by a purge lumen to prevent blood from interfering with device operation.

Also, the purge-free system of devices and methods of the invention by not using a purge fluid

do not effect blood chemistry or osmolality because they do not release an external fluid into the

blood stream. Accordingly, the invention provides devices and methods that use a sealed sleeve

or shroud on an intravascular catheter with blood pump or impeller to reduce pressure at an

outlet of a lymphatic duct while also preventing adverse effects such as clotting or hemolysis.

Because devices and methods of the invention reduce pressure at a lymphatic outlet, they

promote drainage of lymph from the lymph system. Thus, devices and methods of the invention

may be used to treat edema or congestive heart failure.

The invention provides devices and methods for treating edema that use an indwelling

catheter to place an impeller in a blood vessel of a patient, near an outlet of a lymphatic duct.

Operating the impeller creates a local depression in blood pressure, which promotes drainage of

lymph from the lymphatic system. The catheter is also used to release an anticoagulant such as

heparin to wash and lubricate the impeller. Specifically, the anticoagulant inhibits clotting,

hemolysis, or thrombosis from occurring and interfering with smooth operation of the impeller.

The anticoagulant may be released using a medicament lumen that extends along the catheter to

release port that is just upstream of, or just proximal to, the impeller. A suspension or solution of

the anticoagulant may be flowed down the lumen and released such that washes over moving

parts of the impeller, such as the impeller blades, drive cable, and bearing faces between the

impeller and surrounding impeller housing. The anticoagulant prevents blood from clotting at

those locations and surfaces and thus avoids an adverse effects of thrombosis or hemolysis.

By releasing anticoagulant to the impeller, devices of the invention operate smoothly and

reliably within a blood vessel of a patient. By using the impeller to drive blood flow and relieve

pressure at the lymphatic outlet, devices of the invention promote the drainage of lymph from the

lymphatic system to the circulatory system. Preferably, the impeller is provided by a catheter that

releases an anticoagulant such as heparin at or near an inlet of the impeller cage. Due to the

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drainage of lymph, devices and methods of the invention are useful for treating edema and

congestive heart failure. Since those devices use an anticoagulant to maintain smooth and

reliable operation of the impeller, the devices avoid being adversely effected by blood clotting or

other effects. Thus devices and methods of the invention are useful for treating edema and

congestive heart failure.

The invention provides devices and methods for treating edema that use an intravascular

pump to pump blood through the circulatory system in such a manner as to relieve pressure at an

outlet from the lymphatic system into the circulatory system. Devices and methods of the

invention further use a flow-restrictor in the circulatory system, upstream of the pump, to balance

pressure changes induced by the pump and to compensate for downstream flow. The device may

be provided as an indwelling, intravascular catheter with a mechanical pump such as an impeller

and a selectively deployable restrictor such as an inflatable balloon. Congestive heart failure or

edema is treated by inserting the catheter and operating the pump in the circulatory system (e.g.,

in an innominate vein), just downstream of an outlet of a lymphatic duct. Pumping blood away

from the outlet of the lymphatic duct tends to lower pressure at the outlet. Methods of the

invention further use the restrictor for flow compensation, to restrict the upstream flow and thus

amplify or maintain pressure reduction at the lymphatic outlet.

Access may be made through a jugular vein and the catheter may be navigated into

position (e.g., under radiographic imaging) to position the pump just downstream of the

lymphatic outlet. A proximal end of the catheter may house a motor connected to the impeller by

a drive cable. Once the impeller is positioned in the innominate vein, operating the motor to

drive the impeller pumps blood towards the heart and away from the lymphatic outlet, reducing

the pressure at the lymphatic outlet. Absent methods and devices of the invention, blood return

or blood flow through the jugular may simply increase, to restore hydrostatic equilibrium. To

compensate for that effect, the catheter includes a selectively deployable restrictor, such as a

balloon inflatable via an inflation lumen extending along the catheter. When the balloon in

inflated, it inhibits return flow through the jugular vein, thereby maintaining the local pressure

depression at the lymphatic outlet. Due to the low pressure at the lymphatic outlet, lymph flows

out of the interstitial spaces within bodily tissue, relieving pressure there, and thus relieving

edema and protecting against congestive heart failure.

Thus, device and methods of the invention use an intravascular pump and a flow

restrictor to decrease lymphatic pressure and compensate for increased circulation, respectively.

Those means are effective to drain lymph from the lymphatic system and thus relieve edema.

Accordingly, devices and methods of the invention are useful for preventing congestive heart

failure.

The invention provides an impeller assembly with a structure that facilitates flow without

recirculation. When the impeller is operated, structural features of the impeller assembly channel

flow and function as vanes that guide smooth flow of fluid through the impeller. Due to the vane-

like features making up the structure of the impeller assembly, fluid flow through the impeller

assembly is guided along smooth and continual flow lines such that the overall flow patterns

exhibit no vortices or recirculation. The impeller assembly may be connected to a distal portion

of an intravascular of an intravascular treatment treatment catheter catheter andbe may and may usedbe used for for treating treating edema. edema.

By navigating the catheter into a jugular vein of a patient suffering edema and operating

the impeller in a vicinity of a lymphatic duct, the device promotes and increases blood flow

along the jugular vein, which by Bernoulli's principle decreases pressure at an output of the

lymphatic duct. Because pressure is decreased at an output of the lymphatic duct, lymph drains

from the lymphatic system and into the circulatory system, thereby providing relief from adverse

effects and symptoms of edema.

Moreover, the impeller assembly can include specialized combinations of structures to

promote flow therethrough. For example, the impeller assembly may have an inflatable balloon

disposed thereon. An inflation lumen extends down the catheter and passes through a rigid strut

that extends from the catheter to the impeller housing. Several of those rigid struts collectively

support the housing with respect to the catheter. One or any number of those rigid struts may

each have an inflation lumen running therethrough. But a lumen need not be disposed

concentrically within the strut and in preferred embodiments is eccentric as the struts-relative

to the lumen-bears an excess of material standing into the inner space of the impeller housing.

That excess of material extending inward from each strut functions as flow-guiding vane that

channels the flow into smooth patterns without vertices or recirculation. Since a primary benefit

of an intravascular impeller is its ability to efficiently pump blood therethrough, efficient

operation without recirculation or vortices provides an optimized treatment tool for relieving

effects and symptoms of edema.

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In certain aspects, the invention provides a device for treating edema. The device

includes a catheter with a proximal portion and a distal portion. An impeller assembly is

connected to the distal portion. The impeller assembly has an impeller operably disposed within

it. A proximal portion of the impeller assembly is configured to facilitate flow into an inlet of the

impeller assembly without recirculation. When the impeller operates within a blood vessel, blood

flows through a housing of the impeller assembly without recirculation.

The impeller assembly may include a cap secured to the distal portion and one or more

struts extending from the cap to the housing. The housing may have a diameter greater than a

diameter of the cap, such that a proximal base of the housing, the cap, and the one or more struts

define the inlet. In some embodiments, the strut includes an inflation lumen extending

therethrough for inflating a balloon mounted on the impeller assembly. Preferably, the strut is

substantially parallel to an axis of the impeller and protrudes radially inward from at least a

portion of an inner surface of the impeller housing. Such a strut may define a vane within the

impeller assembly that channels fluid flow when the impeller operates to thereby prevent the

recirculation or vortices. The strut may include a fluidic lumen extending therethrough, in which

the fluidic lumen is non-concentric with at least a portion of the body of the strut due to material

of the strut forming the vane within the impeller assembly. The device may have several, e.g.,

three, of the struts, wherein each of the several struts defines a vane within the impeller assembly

that channels fluid flow when the impeller operates to thereby prevent the recirculation or

vortices. The device may optionally include a medicament lumen extending through the catheter

and terminating substantially within a proximal portion of the impeller assembly such that a

In certain embodiments, the catheter includes a tube with a drive cable extending there

through with a cap connected around a terminal portion of the tube, with the impeller housing

mounted to the cap by a plurality of struts that define vanes that promote laminar flow of fluids

through the impeller assembly. The impeller housing may have one or more outlets around a

distal portion of the impeller, such that operation of the impeller within a blood vessel drives

blood into the impeller assembly via the inlets and out of the impeller assembly via the outlets

such that the blood exhibits smooth laminar flow without the recirculation or vortices.

Aspects of the invention provide a method of treating edema. The method includes

inserting into an innominate vein of a patient a distal portion of a catheter. The catheter includes

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

an impeller an impellerassembly on on assembly the the distal portion. distal DrivingDriving portion. an impeller disposed within an impeller the within disposed impellerthe impeller

assembly decreases pressure at a lymphatic duct. A proximal portion of the impeller assembly is

configured to facilitate flow into an inlet of the impeller assembly without recirculation.

The catheter may include a cap secured to the distal portion and one or more struts

extending from the cap to support a housing of the impeller assembly. The housing may have a

diameter greater than a diameter of the cap, and a proximal base of the housing, the cap, and the

one or more struts may define the inlet. The struts may extend substantially parallel to an axis of

the impeller and protrude radially inward from at least a portion of an inner surface of the

impeller housing. The struts may define vanes within the impeller assembly that channel fluid

flow when the impeller operates to thereby prevent the recirculation or vortices. One or more of

the struts may include a fluidic lumen that is non-concentric with at least a portion of the body of

the strut due to material of the strut forming the vane within the impeller assembly.

The method may include inflating an inflatable flow restrictor mounted on the impeller

assembly by delivering an inflation fluid to the restrictor via an inflation lumen extending

through the catheter. The impeller housing may include one or more outlets around a distal

portion of the impeller, such that operation of the impeller within a blood vessel drives blood

into the impeller assembly via the inlets and out of the impeller assembly via the outlets such that

the blood exhibits smooth laminar flow without the recirculation or vortices.

Brief Description of the Drawings

FIG. 1 shows a device for treatment of edema.

FIG. 2 gives a detail view of the impeller assembly.

FIG. 3 shows the expandable member in a deployed state.

FIG. 4 shows a motor housing connected to the catheter.

FIG. 5 shows steps of a method of using the device for treating edema.

FIG. 6 is a detail view of the impeller assembly with the expandable member in a

deployed state.

FIG. 7 diagrams a method for treating edema that uses a restrictor to balance pressure and

compensate for downstream flow.

FIG. 8 shows the restrictor and a pressure sensor for the balance and compensation

method.

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FIG. 9 shows a device inserted into vasculature of a patient.

FIG. 10 diagrams a related method for treating edema using a restrictor for

balance/compensation. balance/compensation.

FIG. 11 is a detail view of features that provide for a purge-free system.

FIG. 12 diagrams a method of treating edema using a purge-free device.

FIG. 13 illustrates a portion of an intravascular device for treatment of edema that

releases an anticoagulant at an intravascular pump.

FIG. FIG. 14 14 is is aa cross-sectional cross-sectional view view through through an an impeller impeller assembly. assembly.

FIG. 15 shows results of a computerized flow model.

FIG. 16 is a partial cutaway view of an impeller assembly.

FIG. 17 is a side view of an impeller assembly.

FIG. 18 shows an exemplary inlet region of an impeller assembly.

FIG. 19 shows an inlet region with an internal inflation lumen.

FIG. 20 is a detailed view of a proximal inlet.

FIG. FIG. 21 21 shows shows aa side side view view of of an an impeller impeller assembly assembly with with rectangular rectangular proximal proximal inlets. inlets.

FIG. 22 shows an impeller assembly with arcuate proximal struts.

FIG. FIG. 23 23 shows shows aa side side view view of of aa proximal proximal portion portion of of an an impeller impeller assembly. assembly.

FIG. FIG. 24 24 illustrates illustrates an an impeller impeller assembly. assembly.

FIG. 25 shows an elongated impeller assembly.

FIG. 26 shows a cross-sectional view of an impeller assembly.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of an impeller assembly inside a vein.

FIGS. 28A-F illustrates attachment and folding of an expandable member.

FIG. FIG. 29 29 shows shows an an impeller impeller assembly assembly with with an an expandable expandable member member having having an an elongated elongated

surface for interfacing with a wall of a blood vessel.

FIG. 30 shows an impeller assembly with a two-part expandable member.

FIG. 31 is a partial cross-sectional view of a distal portion of a catheter.

FIG. FIG. 32 32 is is aa partial partial cross-section cross-section of of aa self-expanding self-expanding impeller impeller assembly. assembly.

FIG. 33 shows a partial cross-section of an impeller assembly.

FIG. 34 shows an inlet of an impeller assembly.

FIG. 35 is an exemplary catheter system.

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FIG. 36 shows a catheter with an expandable member slidably mounted along a shaft of

the catheter.

FIG. 37 shows a fluid channel across an expandable member that allows a controlled

amount of blood flow.

FIG. 38 shows a catheter with an alternative bypass channel.

FIG. 39 shows a patient interface with a sheath in situation.

FIG. FIG. 40 40 shows shows aa patient patient interface interface with with aa sheath sheath held held in in situation situation by by an an adhering adhering

membrane.

FIG. 41 shows a flow control sheath.

FIG. 42 shows a proximal portion of a catheter system.

FIG. 43 illustrates a locking mechanism for fixing a catheter shaft to a hub of a sheath

during therapy.

FIG. 44 shows the locking mechanism engaged with the catheter shaft.

FIG. 45 shows a schematic of a push lock mechanism.

FIG. FIG. 46 46 shows shows an an alternative alternative locking locking mechanism. mechanism.

FIG. 47 is a partial cutaway of a jugular vein showing a flow control sheath inserted

therein.

FIG. 48 shows an indwelling catheter system.

FIG. FIG. 49 49 is is aa cross-section cross-section taken taken along along line line A-A A-A of of FIG. FIG. 48. 48.

FIG. 50 is an indwelling catheter.

FIG. FIG. 51 51 is is an an expanded expanded view view of of dotted dotted circle circle BB of of FIG. FIG. 50 50 according according to to an an embodiment embodiment of of

the invention.

FIG. 52 is an expanded view of dotted circle B of FIG. 50 according to another

embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 53 is an expanded view of dotted circle B of FIG. 50 according to a different

embodiment of the invention.

FIG. FIG. 54 54 illustrates illustrates aa distal distal flush flush of of an an indwelling indwelling catheter. catheter.

FIG. 55 illustrates distal flush of an indwelling catheter according to a different

embodiment.

FIG. 56 shows an indwelling catheter with a purge system.

FIG. 57 shows a cross-section of the central lumen taken along line A-A of FIG. 56

according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 58 shows a cross-section of the central lumen taken along line A-A of FIG. 56

according to a different embodiment of the invention.

FIG. FIG. 59 59 shows shows aa cross-section cross-section of of the the central central lumen lumen taken taken along along line line A-A A-A of of FIG. FIG. 56 56

according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 60 shows an optimized guide surface of a cage inlet.

FIG. 61 shows a suboptimal guide surface.

FIG. FIG. 62 62 shows shows aa cage cage inlet. inlet.

FIG. 63 shows a suboptimal inlet configuration.

Detailed Description

The disclosure relates to devices and methods for treating edema or congestive heart

failure. Devices of the disclosure include catheters dimensioned for insertion through a jugular

vein, in which the catheters use or include various features each alone or in combination as

described herein. Embodiments of the devices include treatment devices in which a flow

restrictor such as a balloon is mounted to a cage or housing of an intravascular pump or impeller.

In some of those embodiments, a shape of a balloon in a deployed state directs and facilitates

blood flow into an inlet of an impeller. In certain embodiments, devices of the disclosure include

an impeller that has a smaller diameter proximal end as compared to a distal end to compensate

in size for positioning of a balloon on an impeller cage. Aspects of the invention relate to a

purge-free system, or purge-free intravascular treatment catheters that do not use a purge fluid to

protect an impeller from thrombosis or clotting. In certain embodiments, devices and methods of

the disclosure use the release of an anticoagulant such as heparin at an inlet of an impeller cage.

Other embodiments of the disclosure relate to devices and methods that use a restrictor such as a

balloon to balance pressure and to compensate for downstream flow when an impeller is

operated to drain a lymphatic duct. Features and embodiments of the disclosure include edema

treatment devices that include an arrangement of lumens that is symmetrical about a drive shaft

to impart balance to the drive shaft. In some embodiments, those lumens have a proximal

terminus outside of a motor housing and extend down to a distal portion of a catheter. Device of

the disclosure may include an atraumatic tip with a thread therein to allow for a smooth material

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transition. Embodiments of the disclosure may include a guidewire running through an impeller

cage. Those embodiments are described and shown in greater detail herein and may be present in

any suitable combination in a device of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows a device 101 for treatment of edema. The device 101 includes a catheter

105 comprising a proximal portion 109 and a distal portion 115. An impeller housing 203 is

attached to the distal portion 115 of the catheter 105 with an impeller disposed therein. An

expandable member 301 may be aligned over an outside of the impeller housing 203. The

expandable member 301 is depicted in a collapsed configuration, and thus appears as little more

than a smooth continuation of the impeller housing 203.

The device 101 may include a restrictor 801 and at least one pressure sensor 805. In the

depicted embodiment, the restrictor 801 is proximal to the expandable member 301. Preferably,

each of the restrictor 801 and the expandable member 301 is independently selectively

deployable to restrict, impede, guide, or direct fluid flow around the relevant portion of the

device 101. In preferred embodiments, each of the restrictor 801 and the expandable member 301

sits in fluid communication with a dedicated inflation lumen that runs along a length of the

catheter 105.

One One feature featureofof thethe device 101 101 device is the is impeller 205, which the impeller 205,iswhich preferably provided within is preferably an provided within an

impeller assembly 201 that provides the impeller housing 203 and other mechanical features

such as ports and openings useful to pump blood and fluid within blood vessels of a patient.

FIG. 2 gives a detail view of the impeller assembly 201. The impeller assembly 201

includes an impeller housing 203 with an impeller 205 rotatably disposed therein. An expandable

301 member is aligned over an outside of the impeller housing 203. The expandable member is

represented in FIG. 2 using dashed lines (ghosted lines to aid in seeing other features of the

device 101). The dashed lines represent the location and disposition of the expandable member

301 in its collapsed or un-deployed state. The impeller housing 203 is attached to the distal

portion 115 of the catheter 105 with an impeller disposed therein. An expandable 301 member is

aligned over an outside of the impeller housing 203. The expandable member is represented in

FIG. 2 using dashed lines (ghosted lines to aid in seeing other features of the device 101). The

dashed lines represent the location and disposition of the expandable member 301 in its collapsed

or un-deployed state.

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WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

As shown, the impeller comprises 205 has blades 206 on a shaft 207. A radius measured

from an axis of the impeller 205 to an outer edge of the blades 206 decreases from a distal to a

proximal portion of the impeller. This can be seen in that an outer edge of each blade 206

includes a dogleg 209 defining a step-down in radius located adjacent a transition between the

distal portion and the proximal portion of the impeller housing 203.

When the distal portion 115 of the device 101 is inserted into vasculature of a patient and

a motor in the motor in the motor housing 401 is operated, the impeller 205 rotates and drives

fluid (i.e., blood) through the impeller housing 203. To that end, a proximal end of the impeller

housing 203 includes one or more inlets 255 and a distal portion of the impeller housing 203

comprises one or more outlets 227. The impeller shaft 207 flares outwards near a distal end of

the impeller 205 such that when the impeller 205 is rotated, the impeller pumps blood through

the impeller housing 203 and out of the one or more outlets 227.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view through the impeller assembly 201 on the distal portion

115 of the device 101. The impeller assembly 201 includes an impeller housing 203 with an

impeller 205 rotatably disposed therein.

The impeller assembly 201 is connected to the distal portion 115 of the catheter. The

impeller assembly has the impeller 205 operably disposed within the assembly. The cutaway

view of the impeller assembly 201 shows a proximal portion of the impeller assembly is

When the impeller 205 operates within a blood vessel, blood flows through a housing 203

of the impeller assembly 201 without recirculation.

As illustrated by the cross-sectional view, in the depicted embodiment, the impeller

assembly 201 comprises a cap 249 secured to the distal portion 115 and one or more struts 1405

extending from the cap 249 to the housing 203. Any one or more of the struts 1405 may include

a lumen 415. The housing 203 has a diameter greater than a diameter of the cap 249. It can be

seen that structurally, a proximal base of the housing 203, the cap 249, and the one or more struts

105 define one or more inlets into the impeller housing 201.

In the depicted embodiment, the strut 1405 has an inflation lumen 415 extending

therethrough for inflating a balloon mounted on the impeller assembly. The strut 1405 is

substantially parallel to an axis of the impeller 205 and protrudes radially inward from at least a

portion portionofofananinner surface inner of the surface of impeller housinghousing the impeller 203. When structured 203. as such, each When structured strut 1405 as such, each strut 1405

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

defines a vane within the impeller assembly 201 that channels fluid flow when the impeller 205

operates to thereby prevent the recirculation or vortices.

As shown, the strut 1405 has a fluidic lumen 415 extending therethrough. The fluidic

lumen 415 is non-concentric with at least a portion of the body of the strut 1405 due to material

of the strut 1405 forming the vane within the impeller assembly 201. With reference to, e.g.,

FIG. FIG. 3, 3, it it can can be be seen seen that that the the device device 101 101 may may include include aa plurality, plurality, e.g., e.g., at at least least three, three, of of the the struts. struts.

Together, the struts define vanes within the impeller assembly that channels fluid flow when the

impeller operates to thereby prevent the recirculation or vortices.

The impeller housing 201 includes one or more outlets 258 around a distal portion of the

impeller 205. Operation of the impeller 205 within a blood vessel drives blood into the impeller

assembly 201 via the inlets 255 and out of the impeller assembly 201 via the outlets 258 such

that the blood exhibits smooth laminar flow without the recirculation or vortices.

FIG. 15 shows how blood flows through the impeller assembly 201 via the inlets 255 and

out of the impeller assembly 201 via the outlets 258 such that the blood exhibits smooth laminar

flow without the recirculation or vortices. The image depicts results of a computerized flow

model. The flow model shows that flow through an impeller assembly with a structure of the

invention is smooth and does not exhibit recirculation.

Because the model test results show smooth and efficient flow, a device of the invention

pumps blood more efficiently than other devices that lack structures as shown herein.

The computer model test results show that flow is smooth and that there are no vortices

or recirculation within the flow.

Because devices of the invention are more efficient than other devices and pump blood

without vortices or recirculation, devices of the invention are beneficial for treating patients with

edema. Thus, using a device of the disclosure, a clinician may perform a method for treating

edema. The method includes inserting into an innominate vein of a patient a distal portion 115 of

a catheter. The catheter has an impeller assembly 201 on the distal portion 115. The method

includes driving an impeller 205 disposed within the impeller assembly 201 to thereby decrease

pressure at a lymphatic duct. A proximal portion of the impeller assembly 201 is configured to

facilitate flow into an inlet of the impeller assembly without recirculation as clearly shown in the

depicted computer flow model. The catheter may have any of the other features disclosed herein

(e.g., a cap secured to the distal portion with one or more struts extending from the cap to

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support a housing of the impeller assembly in which the housing has a diameter greater than a

diameter of the cap, and in which a proximal base of the housing, the cap, and the one or more

struts define the inlet).

As shown by the image of results from the computer flow model, the struts define vanes

within the impeller assembly that channel fluid flow when the impeller operates to thereby

prevent the recirculation or vortices. The flow lines appearing in the computer flow model clear

avoid any loops that would appear if the flow had recirculation or vortices. Because flow through

the impeller assembly 201 has no recirculation or vortices, the image from the computer flow

model shows only flow lines that do not have loops, circles, spirals, etc.

The impeller housing includes one or more outlets around a distal portion of the impeller.

When the impeller is operated within a blood vessel, the impeller drives blood into the impeller

assembly via the inlets and out of the impeller assembly via the outlets such that the blood

exhibits smooth laminar flow without the recirculation or vortices.

Devices and methods of the disclosure may include other features.

A device 101 of the disclosure may further include a medicament lumen 251 extending

through the catheter 105 and terminating substantially at an inlet 255 of the impeller assembly

201. In some embodiments, the impeller assembly 201 also includes an atraumatic tip 231 with a

threaded fitment 237 therein to allow for a smooth transition of material properties between the

rigid impeller cage 203 (e.g., a metal) and the softer material of the atraumatic tip 239. The tip

239 preferably includes a suitable soft material such as a polymer. The material may include, for

example, polyether block amides such as those sold under the trademark PEBAX by Arkema Inc.

(King of Prussia, PA). Although polyether block amides are mentioned in detail, the polymer can

comprise any number of other polymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated

ethylene propylene (FEP), polyurethane, polypropylene (PP), polyvinylchloride (PVC),

polyether-ester, polyester, polyamide, elastomeric polyamides, block polyamide/ethers, silicones,

polyethylene, Marlex high-density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene,

polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), or polyetherimide (PEI). The threaded fitment 237

may include a threaded post (e.g., of metal or a plastic such as a polycarbonate) threadingly fitted

to both the impeller housing 203 and the atraumatic tip 231. By including a long post for the

fitment 237 (e.g., longer than its own maximal diameter, preferably at least about 2 or 3x

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

longer), the tip 231 can deform but is prevented from assuming or exhibiting any kinks or

discontinuities. Further, as shown, the tip 231 may include a guidewire lumen 239.

The expandable member 301 on the impeller assembly 201 is depicted in the collapsed

configuration with dashed lines. The impeller assembly 201 operates as a pump and includes the

impeller 205 disposed within the impeller housing 203. In preferred embodiments, the

expandable member 301 comprises an inflatable balloon connected to an exterior surface of the

impeller housing 203.

FIG. 3 shows the expandable member 301 in a deployed state. In the depicted

embodiment, the expandable member 301 is provided as a balloon. As shown, when the balloon

is inflated, it defines a torus. An exterior surface of the expandable member 301 is physically

coupled to an exterior surface of the impeller housing 203 (e.g., the balloon may be cemented to

the housing 203 with an adhesive).

Preferably, the exterior surface of the expandable member 301 is physically coupled

directly to the exterior surface of the impeller housing 203 without any membrane, sheath, or

device 101 between the exterior surface of the expandable member 301 and the exterior surface

of the impeller housing 203. The expandable member 301 may partially or fully surround the

impeller housing 203. The expandable member 301 may be provided as an inflatable balloon that

surrounds the impeller housing 203.

Devices of the disclosure may include feature to facilitate bonding of the balloon to the

impeller housing 203. For example, the impeller housing may include metal (e.g., stainless steel,

steel, aluminum, titanium, a nickel-titanium alloy, etc.) and a portion of the expandable member

301 may be fixed to a surface of the metal by an adhesive. To facilitate bonding, at least a

portion of the surface of the metal may be impregnated with a polymer. In some embodiments,

the metal surface at least at the exterior, proximal portion of the impeller cage 203 is

impregnated with polyurethane to a depth of at least 3 um. µm.

Using the expandable member 301 mounted to the impeller cage 203, the device 101 is

configured for placement in a body vessel. The impeller housing comprises an axis that may be

placed substantially parallel to an axis of the vessel. Preferably, the expandable member 301 is

impervious to flow across the expandable member. The expandable member 301 is configured in

use to appose the wall of a blood vessel and in SO so doing direct fluid flow to an inlet of the

impeller housing 203.

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In use, the expandable member 301 anchors or holds the impeller assembly 201 in a

fixed position relative to the axis of the vessel. In that anchored state, the expandable member

301 conforms to the vessel wall at a region of apposition and the region of apposition comprises

a substantially cylindrically segment of the vessel wall. The central axis of the expandable

member and the central axis of the impeller housing are preferably substantially the same.

The expandable member is configured, in use, to allow the axis of the impeller housing to

articulate relative to the axis of the balloon. The articulation of the impeller relative to the

balloon preferably comprises two degrees of freedom.

In some embodiments, the expandable member 301 comprises a balloon and the

membrane of the balloon comprises an omega shape in cross-section.

The impeller housing 203 may include a tubular member and a wall of the tubular

member may include a hole extending through the wall of the tubular member to at least partially

define an inflation port for the balloon. Preferably, the inflation port is connected via the catheter

to an inflation system exterior of the patient. The connection may include a shaped metal tube or

tubing that couples to, and forms a seal with (i.e., "sealingly coupled to") the inflation port. In

certain embodiments, the coupling of the expandable member to the impeller housing comprises

at least one circumferential seal around the outside diameter of the housing. More preferably, the

coupling of the expandable member to the impeller housing comprises a first circumferential seal

around the outside diameter of the housing and a second circumferential seal around the outside

diameter, with the second circumferential seal spaced apart axially from the first circumferential

seal. In some embodiments, the circumferential seal has an axial length and a part of the seal

surrounds an inflation port that extends across the walls of the impeller housing and the

expandable member. The impeller housing may include an inflation port positioned between the

first circumferential seal and the second circumferential seal.

Referencing back to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, preferably, the balloon has a collapsed state (FIG.

2) for delivery and retrieval and an expanded state (FIG. 3). In some embodiments, in the

collapsed state at least a portion of the balloon material can slide relative to an axis of the

impeller housing (i.e., is axially slidable relative to the impeller housing). For example, at least a

portion of the balloon material may be configured to slide proximally during delivery and to

slide distally during retrieval. It may be provided that the balloon comprises a toroidal shape with

a first neck and a second neck coupled to the impeller housing. Preferably, a distance between

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the first neck and the second neck is smaller than the circumference of the toroidal shaped

balloon. balloon.

A coupling between the expandable member 301 and the impeller housing 203 may

include an interfacial layer. For example, the interfacial layer may include an interpenetrating

layer. In certain embodiments, the impeller housing comprises interstices and the

interpenetrating layer comprises an interpenetration of material of the membrane into the

interstices of the impeller housing. The interpenetrating layer may include a tie layer, which may

include an acrylate material.

In some embodiments, the expandable member 301 is configured to apply a radial

outward force to the vessel wall. The device may be configured such that said application of said

outward radial force substantially fixes at least a portion of the impeller housing 203 to a central

axis of the vessel. The impeller housing comprises an inner lumen extending from a proximal

section of the impeller housing to a distal section of, or outlets of, the housing, the inner lumen

configured to house the impeller 205. The impeller housing comprises a first diameter adjacent

the proximal section and a second diameter adjacent the distal section. In certain embodiments, a

diameter of the inner lumen of the impeller housing varies between said proximal section and

said distal section. Similarly, a radial dimension of the impeller blades 206 may vary between

said proximal section and said distal section. The diameter of the variation of impeller housing

inner lumen diameter may define a tapered, a step, a plurality of steps, a plurality of tapers, a dog

bone, a parabola or a combination of these. The impeller blades are configured to be in fluidic

engagement with the inner lumen of the impeller housing. Preferably, the impeller blades 206 are

configured to be in clearance with the inner lumen of the impeller housing. The impeller

assembly 201 has at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening. The at least one inlet

opening and the at least one outlet opening may be separated by a distance of between 1-40

millimeters. Preferably, the at least one inlet opening and the at least one outlet opening are

approximately 5 millimeters apart and may position a proximal end of the impeller 205

approximately 0.5 millimeters from a distal edge of the inlet. This configuration is preferable

because it helps minimize recirculation at a transition from inlet to impeller 205. In some

embodiments, discussed herein, for example, in FIG. 25, the distance between the inlet and outlet

may be extended to the approx. 25 - 30 millimeters. This configuration provides a more laminar

flow into the impeller 205. In other embodiments, the at least one inlet opening and the at least

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one outlet opening may be approximately 3 millimeters apart to bring the impeller 205 nearer or

just inside the inlet. The at least one inlet opening comprises a proximal end and a distal end. A

proximal part of the torus extends proximally of the distal end of the proximal inlet opening to

define an entry funnel into the inlet opening. The distal portion 115 of the catheter 101 is

configured for insertion into a vessel of a patient and the proximal portion 109 of the catheter is

configured to extend exterior of the patient.

The proximal portion 109 of the catheter 101 may terminate at the motor housing 401.

FIG. 4 shows a motor housing 401 connected to the proximal portion 109 of the catheter

105. A motor 405 is disposed within the motor housing 401. A drive cable 411 extends through

the catheter 105 from the motor 405 to the impeller. In preferred embodiments, an inflation

lumen 415 extends along the catheter 105 to the expandable member 301. The drive cable 411

preferably extends through a sleeve within the catheter 101, such as an impermeable sleeve 121.

In purge-free embodiments, the impermeable sleeve 121 may include a seal at one or both ends

to exclude fluids from the drive cable 411. The impermeable sleeve 121 meets the motor housing

401 at the proximal seal 433.

In certain embodiments, the motor 405 includes a rotor operable to rotate at high speed

and the catheter 101 includes a drive cable 411 to transmit said rotational speed through the

catheter 101 to the impeller 205. The drive cable 411 may be able to transmit a rotational speed

of greater than 5,000 rpms to the impeller 205 (e.g., >10,000 rpm, >15,000 rpm, or >20,000

rpm). Most preferably, the catheter is configured for heatless operation while transmitting high

rotational speeds to the impeller.

The impermeable sleeve 121 may include a material such as polytetrafluoroethylene

(PTFE). For example, the impermeable sleeve 121 may be provided by thick-walled PTFE

tubing. The thick-walled PTFE tubing may have a wall thickness of greater than 75 micrometers,

preferably >100 microns, >125 microns, or greater than 150 microns. Optionally, the drive shaft

has a second moment of area with a value. The drive cable 411 may include a cylindrical super-

elastic member over at least a portion of the length of the drive shaft. The clearance between the

drive shaft may be less than a certain number of micrometers. In some embodiments, the

impermeable sleeve 121 comprises hydrophobic material. The impermeable sleeve 121 may

include a material with a Hildebrand solubility parameter (8) of less () of less than than 16 16 MPa^(0.5). MPa^(0.5) The

impermeable sleeve 121 may include a material with a Hildebrand solubility parameter of less

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

than 14 MPa' ^(0.5). MPa^(0.5). For For example, of example, 8 of nylon nylon is is about about 15.7 15.7 Mpa^0.5; Mpa^0.5; of8 polytetrafluoroethylene of polytetrafluoroethylene

(PTFE) is about 6.2 MPa^0.5. The impermeable sleeve 121 may include a PTFE material, and

the drive cable 411 may include a nitinol rod and a gap between the rod and the sleeve may be

less than a few microns. Preferably, a concentricity of the rod is greater than 95%. The drive

cable may have a first diameter and a second diameter, with the first diameter being slightly

larger than the second diameter. The impermeable sleeve may include a polymer material with a

dynamic coefficient of friction of less than 0.08, or less than 0.07, 0.06, or 0.05.

Devices of the disclosure are useful for treating edema or congestive heart failure. Using

a device of the disclosure, one may operate a pump to promote flow in an innominate vein,

resulting in a decrease in pressure at an output of a lymphatic duct, which drains lymph from the

lymphatic system. To compensate for what would otherwise be changes in pressure in the

circulatory system that would result from operating the pump, the disclosure provides methods to

compensate for a pressure change.

FIG. 5 shows steps of a method 501 of using the device 101 for treating edema. The

method 501 includes inserting 510 the distal portion 115 of the catheter 105 into an innominate

vein 939 of a patient, operating 515 the impeller, and expanding 517 the expandable member 301

to thereby decrease pressure at a lymphatic duct 907.

The method 501 may include the use of a device 101 that includes a catheter 105 with a

proximal proximal portion portion 109 109 and and a a distal distal portion portion 115, 115, the the distal distal portion portion 115 115 dimensioned dimensioned for for insertion insertion

into a lumen of a patient. The device 101 includes a pump (e.g., an impeller assembly 201) and

an expandable member 301 connected to the pump. When expanded, the expandable member

301 comprises a toroidal shape, in which a proximal surface of the toroidal shape directs fluid

into the impeller housing 203. Preferably, an inner radius of the toroidal shape is substantially

the same as a radius of the proximal end of the impeller housing 203. In some embodiments, the

expandable member 301 comprises an inflatable balloon mounted on the pump. The pump

comprises an impeller housing 203 with an impeller therein, with the balloon mounted around at

least a portion of a proximal end of the impeller housing 203. The impeller housing 203 may

include a distal portion and a proximal portion, with an external diameter of the proximal portion

being smaller than an external diameter of the distal portion. The expandable member 301, when

not expanded, is disposed around the proximal portion of the impeller housing 203. When the

balloon is inflated, a surface of the torus is attached to a surface of the impeller housing 203.

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When the expandable member 301 is not expanded, the distal portion 115 of the catheter 105

may be passed through a 12 Fr introducer sheath.

FIG. 6 is a detail view of the impeller assembly 201 with the expandable member 301 in

a deployed state. The impeller 205 sits substantially within and/or just downstream of the

deployed restrictor. An inflation lumen 415 extends through the distal portion 115 of the catheter

and terminates at port 601 into the expandable member 301. Visual inspection of a surface of the

expandable member 301 on a proximal side and an inner surface of the impeller housing 203

reveals that those surfaces form a smooth continuous surface that funnels fluid, under an

impelling power of the impeller, through the impeller housing 203. This drives blood through

blood vessels and modulates fluid pressure in the vicinity. When operated substantially within an

innominate vein, pressure at an outlet of a lymphatic duct decreases, which promotes the

drainage of lymph and relief from edema.

FIG. 7 diagrams a method 701 for treating edema. The method 701 includes operating

710 a pump to increase flow through an innominate vein 939 of a patient and-subsequent to the

operating step-deploying 717 a restrictor upstream of the pump to thereby restrict flow from a

jugular vein to the innominate vein 939 in order to balance 729 pressure downstream of the

pump. The method 701 may include operating the pump and then restricting the flow once the

increased flow through the innominate vein 939 affects pressure in the jugular vein.

The method 701 preferably includes sensing 715, with a pressure sensor 805, an increase

in pressure in the jugular vein that results from the increased flow and restricting the flow in

response to sensing the increased pressure in the jugular vein.

FIG. 8 shows the restrictor 801 and a pressure sensor 805. In fact, as shown in FIG. 8, the

device 101 includes pressure sensors 805 along the catheter 105 at locations both proximal and

distal to the restrictor 801. In the depicted embodiment, the pressure sensors 805 include pressure

sensing lumens extending along the catheter 105 and terminating at the skive-cut sensing

apertures along the side of the catheter 105. The sensing lumens extend proximally along the

catheter to the motor housing 401, where the sensing lumens preferably exit the housing 401 and

make fluidic contact with a mechanical pressure sensor device such as a piezoelectric pressure

sensor. The interior of the pressure sensing lumens preferably establish at least substantial

hydrostatic equilibrium from the skive-cut sensing apertures along the side of the catheter 105 to

the mechanical pressure sensor devices such that a reading from the sensing device(s) is

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informative of pressure in an area around the restrictor 801. Thus the pressure sensors 805

provide information that can feedback into the method 701 and be used as information to control

deployment 717 of the restrictor 801. The method 701 preferably includes inserting 705 the

device 101 comprising the pump into vasculature of a patient prior to the operating 710 step.

FIG. FIG. 99 shows shows aa device device 101 101 inserted inserted 705 705 into into vasculature vasculature of of aa patient. patient. The The device device 101 101

comprises a catheter 105 dimensioned to be at partially implanted within the vasculature and the

pump comprises an impeller assembly 201 disposed at a distal portion 115 of the catheter 105.

The distal portion 115 is inserted through the jugular vein and down and into the innominate vein

939. Preferably a proximal portion 109 of the catheter 105 is connected to a motor housing 401

and the device 101 one or more pressure sensor 805 and the deployable restrictor 801 attached to

the catheter 105 proximal to the pump.

Once the impeller assembly is at least partially within the innominate vein 939, the

impeller 205 is spun, which pumps blood through the impeller housing 203. This causes a

decrease in pressure around an outlet of a lymphatic duct 907. The decrease in pressure causes

lymph to drain from the lymphatic duct 907 and into the circulatory system. That drainage of

lymph relieves edema or alleviates congestive heart failure. The method 701 further includes

deploying deploying717 717a restrictor 801 801 a restrictor upstream of theof upstream impeller assemblyassembly the impeller 201 to thereby 201 torestrict therebyflow restrict flow

from a jugular vein to the innominate vein 939 in order to balance 729 pressure downstream of

the impeller assembly 201. The method 701 may further include sensing 715 pressure and

adjusting 735 restriction of the flow according to pressure sensed 715 via one or more of the

pressure sensors 805.

In some embodiments, the restrictor 801 includes an inflatable balloon and restricting 717

the flow includes inflating the restrictor. Optionally the sensing 715 is performed using a

computer system communicatively connected to the pressure sensor(s) 805. The method 701

may include periodically or continually adjusting 735 inflation of the restrictor according to the

sensed pressure.

FIG. FIG. 10 10 diagrams diagrams aa related related method method 1001 1001 for for treating treating edema. edema. The The method method 1001 1001 includes includes

inserting 1005 a pump into an innominate vein and operating 1010 the pump to increase flow

through an innominate vein 939 of a patient. A pressure change in a jugular vein of the patient

that results from the increased flow is sensed 1015, and a restrictor 801 is adjusted 1029 to

restrict flow from the jugular vein to the innominate vein 939 based on the sensed pressure.

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Preferably, the method 1001 includes inserting 1005 a catheter 105 into the innominate vein 939.

The catheter 105 comprises the pump, a pressure sensor 805, and the restrictor 801. The

restrictor may include an inflatable balloon and adjusting 1029 the restrictor may include at least

partially inflating and/or deflating the balloon. The sensing 1015 may be performed using the

pressure sensor 805. The method 1001 preferably includes periodically or continually adjusting

inflation of the restrictor according to the sensed pressure. The method 1001 may include

adjusting 1029 the inflation in order to balance pressure downstream of the pump. In preferred

embodiments, the pump comprises an impeller assembly 201 disposed at a distal portion 115 of

the catheter 105. A proximal portion 109 of the catheter 105 is connected to a motor housing 401

having a motor 405 therein operably coupled to the impeller assembly. In certain embodiments,

the catheter 105 is coupled to a computer system operable to read the pressure or control the

inflation.

Aspects and embodiments of the disclosure relate to a purge-free system, which may be

understood to refer to or include methods and devices for the treatment of edema that do not use

a purge system or a purge liquid.

FIG. 11 is a detail view of features that provide for a purge-free system. The purge-free

system may be provided by a device 101 that includes a catheter 105 comprising a proximal

portion 109 and a distal portion 115, an impeller 205 connected to the distal portion 115 of the

catheter 105, a motor 405 connected to the proximal portion 109 of the catheter 105, a drive

cable 411 extending through the catheter 105 from the motor 405 to the impeller 205, and an

impermeable sleeve 121 extending through the catheter 105 over the drive cable 411.

The sleeve 121 has a distal seal 435 at the impeller. With reference back to FIG. 4, the

sleeve 121 may have a proximal seal 433 at the motor 405. Due to the sleeve 121 and at least the

distal seal 435, a body fluid external to the impermeable sleeve 121 is prevented from entering

the impermeable sleeve 121 and contacting the drive cable 411. The sleeve 121 and at least the

distal seal 435 exclude fluid from the drive cable 411.

With reference back to FIG. 4, the proximal seal 433 (see FIG. 4) may include one or

more O-rings. Similarly, the distal seal 435 between the sleeve 121 and the drive cable 411 may

be provided by an O-ring, or a collar or press-fit, or extended, friction-fit tube. Any suitable seal

may be included that prevents blood or bodily fluid from entering the sleeve and making contact

with the drive cable 121. The drive cable 121 may be provided by any suitable material

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including, for example, a nickel-titanium alloy or a braided steel cable. Contact with blood

would present a risk of hemolysis or clotting that could interfere with an ability of the drive cable

411 to rotate freely (e.g., at > 5,000 rpm) within the sleeve 121 and within the catheter 105. The

sleeve excludes blood and thus obviates concerns about clotting or hemolysis, allowing the drive

cable 411 and impeller 205 to operate freely without impediment.

Embodiments of the device 101 may include multiple lumens. For example, the device

101 may include a first and second inflation lumen 415 (or a single inflation lumen 415). The

device may include a medicament lumen 251 extending through the catheter 105. In preferred

embodiments, the device 101 includes at least a first inflation lumen 415 and a second inflation

lumen 415, both extending through the catheter 105. The first inflation lumen 415 and the second

inflation lumen 415 have respective first and second proximal ends 416 (see FIG. 1) accessible

outside of the motor housing 401. The first lumen and the second lumen are preferably

symmetrically disposed about the drive cable 411 to impart balance to the device 101. As shown,

the catheter 105 does not include a purge system or a purge fluid.

With reference back to FIGS. 1 and 3, the device 101 may include an impeller 205 sitting

in an impeller housing 203. The device 101 includes at least a first expandable member 301

connected to the distal portion 115 of the catheter 105. The first expandable member 301 may be

connected to the impeller housing 203, wherein the device 101 further comprises a second

expandable member 801 disposed along the catheter 105. The first expandable member 301 may

use a toroidal balloon connected directly to a surface of the impeller housing 203. The device

101 may further include at least one pressure sensor 805 disposed along the catheter 105

proximal to the impeller. In purge-free embodiments, the distal seal 435 may be provided using a

fitting 1107 between the impermeable sleeve 121 and a portion of the impeller 205, in which the

fitting 1107 excludes fluids and allows the impeller 205 and drive cable 411 to rotate within the

device 101. The depicted device 101 is useful for the treatment of edema, and may be

characterized as a purge-free device. The purge-free device may be used in a method of treating

edema.

FIG. 12 diagrams a method 1201 of treating edema using a purge-free device. The

method 1201 includes inserting 1205 into an innominate vein 939 of a patient a distal portion

115 of a catheter 105 and driving 1210 an impeller 205 connected to the distal portion 115 of the

catheter 105 by means of motor 405 at a proximal portion 109 of the catheter 105. The motor

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405 is connected to the impeller 205 by a drive cable 411 extending through the catheter 105, to

thereby decrease pressure 1217 at a lymphatic duct 907. An impermeable sleeve 121 extends

through the catheter 105 over the drive cable 411 such that body fluid external to the

impermeable sleeve is prevented from entering the impermeable sleeve and contacting the drive

cable. The impermeable sleeve 121 and at least the distal seal 435 exclude 1215 fluid from

entering into the impermeable sleeve 121 and making contact with the drive cable 411.

The method 1201 may include inflating 1229 a restrictor disposed along the distal portion

115 of the catheter 105 to restrict flow from a jugular vein into the innominate vein 939. The

inflation 1229 may be performed using an inflation lumen 415 extending through the catheter

105 outside of the impermeable sleeve 121. In some embodiments, blood and bodily fluid is

excluded 1215 from the drive cable 411 using a repulsive gap between the drive cable 411 and

the impermeable sleeve 121. For example, the repulsive gap may include a hydrophobic material

(PTFE) on one side of the gap, a smooth metallic shaft 411 on the other and a gap dimension that

prevents influx of blood components. For example, a gap dimension of about 0.5 um µm should

prevent influx of red blood cells, leukocytes, and platelets. It may be found that a gap dimension

of 0.1 um µm excludes 1215 all blood and bodily fluid. The drive cable 411 may not lie concentric

with the sleeve 121 SO so preferably the gap dimension is the largest gap between the two.

The decreased pressure at a lymphatic duct 907 promotes drainage from a lymphatic

system into a circulatory system. Preferably, the impermeable sleeve 121 comprises a proximal

seal 433 at a housing of the motor 405 and a distal seal 435 at the impeller 205. The proximal

seal 433 prevents the blood and bodily fluid from escaping the patient through the motor housing

401 or the proximal portion 109 of the catheter 105. In some embodiments, the distal seal 435

comprises a fitting between the impermeable sleeve and a portion of the impeller, wherein the

fitting excludes fluids and allows the impeller and drive cable to rotate within the device 101.

The method 1201 may include inflating at least one balloon 301, 801 disposed along the

catheter 105 by means of an inflation lumen 415 having a proximal end accessible outside of the

motor housing 401 while the distal portion 115 of the catheter 105 is inserted into the innominate

vein 939. In various embodiments, the proximal seal 433 uses an O-ring; the impermeable sleeve

121 comprises PTFE; the drive cable 411 comprises a metal such as a nickel-titanium alloy;

either or both of balloon 301 and restrictor 801 may comprises polyvinyl chloride, cross-linked

polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or nylon; or any combination of the those

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materials are included. Employing the method 1201, blood and bodily fluid are excluded 1215

from the drive cable 411 without the use of a purge fluid or purge system.

Other features and benefits are provided by or within the scope of the disclosure.

Methods and devices of the disclosure avoid problems with thrombosis or hemolysis that

may otherwise interfere with the functioning of mechanical systems or form surface irregularities

that lead to other complications. For example, mechanical system may be most beneficial

medically when blood clots or other coagulation-related phenomena are avoided. Accordingly,

embodiments of devices and methods of the disclosure are provided that inhibit coagulation,

thrombosis, hemolysis, or other issues that may present when treating edema.

Certain embodiments provide a device that operates with benefit from an anticoagulant.

The device may include a pump (e.g., an impeller assembly) that is washed with a solution or

suspension that comprises an anticoagulant such as, for example, heparin. Where the pump or

impeller assembly is provided via a catheter, the catheter may include a lumen, reservoir, port, or

other such feature to release the coagulant at or near the pump.

FIG. 13 illustrates a portion of an intravascular device 101 for treatment of edema that

releases an anticoagulant at an intravascular pump. The device 101 includes a catheter 105, an

impeller assembly 201 mounted at a distal portion 115 of the catheter 105, and a medicament

lumen lumen 251 251extending extendingthrough the catheter through 105 and the catheter terminating 105 substantially and terminating at an inletat substantially 255 anofinlet the 255 of the

impeller assembly 201. When the device 101 is used (e.g., when the impeller 205 is operated

within a blood vessel of a patient), a medicament released from the medicament lumen 251 flows

through the inlet 255 and impeller assembly 201. Preferably, the catheter 105 and impeller

assembly are dimensioned for insertion through a jugular vein of a patient The device 101 may

include a reservoir in fluid communication with the medicament lumen 251. The reservoir may

be, for example, a solution bag (aka an "IV bag") on a rack near the treatment gurney and in

fluid communication with the medicament lumen 251 (e.g., via a Luer lock).

In certain embodiments of an anticoagulant delivery device 101, the impeller assembly

201 has an impeller housing 203 with an impeller 205 rotatably disposed therein. The device 101

preferably includes a motor 405 connected to a proximal end of the catheter 105 and operably

connected to the impeller 205 via a drive cable 411 extending through the catheter 105. The

medicament lumen 241 preferably extends through the catheter 105 (e.g., outside of a sleeve 121

surrounding the drive cable 411) and may terminate at a port 252 such that an anticoagulant

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released therefrom washes the impeller 205 or impeller assembly 201. Preferably, the port 252 is

located at the impeller housing 203, proximal to the impeller.

To define the inlets 255, the catheter 105 may include a tube with a drive cable extending

there through with a cap 249 connected around a terminal portion of the tube, with the impeller

housing 203 mounted to the cap by a plurality of struts to define inlets 255 into the impeller

housing 203. In some embodiments, the cap 249 seals a terminus of the flexible tube to a shaft of

the impeller, and the port 252 is located in the cap 249. Preferably, the impeller housing 203

includes one or more outlets 258 around a distal portion 115 of the impeller, such that operation

of the impeller 205 within a blood vessel drives blood into the impeller assembly 201 via the

inlets 255 and out of the impeller assembly via the outlets 258.

The device 101 may include an anticoagulant in the reservoir. When the device 101 is

inserted into a blood vessel of a patient and the impeller 205 is operated, the anticoagulant is

released from the port 252 in the impeller cage 201 and the released anticoagulant mixes with

blood and washes over the rotating impeller 205. Any suitable anticoagulant may be used. For

example, the anticoagulant may include one or any combination of heparin, tirofiban, warfarin,

rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban, edoxaban, enoxaparin, and fondaparinux. Due to the

anticoagulant, the device 101 may be used for the treatment of edema, using the impeller to

cause drainage of a lymphatic duct or vessel.

Using such a device, aspects of the invention provide a method for treating edema. The

method includes operating a pump to increase flow through an innominate vein 939 of a patient

and releasing an anticoagulant at or adjacent an inlet of the pump. The pump may include an

impeller 205 in a cage 203 at a distal portion 115 of a catheter 105 and the anticoagulant is

released from a port 252 in or adjacent a proximal portion of the cage. Preferably, a proximal end

of the catheter 105 terminates at a housing comprising a motor 405, and the motor 405 is

operably coupled to the impeller by a drive cable extending through the catheter 105. In this

method, the catheter 105 includes a medicament lumen extending therethrough and terminating

at the port. This method may include providing the anticoagulant in a reservoir in fluid

communication with the medicament lumen; inserting the catheter 105 into vasculature of the

patient to position the impeller in the innominate vein 939; operating the motor 405 to drive the

impeller; and washing the anticoagulant over the impeller by releasing the anticoagulant from the

port. Preferably, this method includes operating the pump decreases pressure at a lymphatic duct

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907, thereby draining lymph from a lymphatic system of the patient. The pump may include an

impeller on a distal portion 115 of a catheter 105. This method may include releasing the

anticoagulant from a port at a proximal portion 109 of the impeller, preventing clotting or

thrombosis from interfering with operation of the impeller by the release of the anticoagulant, or

both. The anticoagulant may include heparin, warfarin, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban,

edoxaban, enoxaparin, or fondaparinux. Using a restrictor 801, 301, the method may include

restricting flow from a jugular vein to the innominate vein 939 to thereby promote flow from a

subclavian vein to the innominate vein 939.

FIG. 16 is a partial cutaway view of an impeller assembly 1601. The impeller assembly

1601 includes an impeller housing 1603 with an impeller 1605 rotatably disposed therein. An

expandable member 1607 is attached to an outside of the impeller housing 1603. The expandable

member 1607 is depicted in an expanded state.

The impeller assembly 1601 is may be designed to facilitate a blood flow through the

impeller housing 1603. To facilitate blood flow, the impeller housing 1603 may include proximal

inlets 1655. Preferably, the impeller housing 1603 includes at least four proximal inlets 1655.

The proximal inlets 1655 may be substantially rectangular and may include rounded corners. The

impeller assembly 1601 may also include distal outlets 1658. For example, the impeller assembly

1601 may include four to five distal outlets 1658. Preferably, the proximal inlets 1655 and distal

outlets 1658 include substantially rounded features, such as, rounded corners. Rounded features

are preferable because rounded features provide smooth contact surfaces for blood that flows

through the impeller housing 1603. This may reduce incidences of damage to particles in blood,

e.g., blood cells, that occurs when blood strikes a sharp surface.

In preferred embodiments, an expandable member 1607 is attached to an outer surface of

the impeller housing 1603. The expandable member 1607 may comprise a shape that facilitates a

flow of blood into the impeller housing 1603 when the expandable member 1607 is in an

expanded state. In some embodiments, the expandable member 1607 forms a D shaped ring

around a circumference of the impeller housing 1603. In other embodiments, the expandable

member 1607 forms an Omega shaped ring around a circumference of the impeller housing

1603. In other embodiments, the expandable member 1603 forms a substantially circular ring

around the impeller housing 1603.

In an expanded state, a proximal face 1613 of the expandable member 1607 may be

substantially aligned with a distal portion 1615 of the proximal inlets 1655. A distal face 1617 of

the expandable member 1607 may be substantially aligned with the proximal extent 1619 of the

distal outlets 1658.

In preferred embodiments, the expandable member 1607 comprises an elastomeric

membrane, for example, a polyurethane membrane. The expandable member 1607 may be a

balloon. The balloon may comprise a low durometer material, for example, a durometer of <80

shore D hardness, or <70 shore D hardness, or less than 60 shore D hardness, or between 60

shore A hardness and 60 shore D hardness.

The expandable member 1607 may include a fluidically sealed space, i.e., an inflation

space 1623, that is radially expandable relative to the impeller housing 1603. The impeller

assembly 1601 may include an inflation tube 1627 connecting the inflation space 1623 to a

lumen of the catheter 1602. The inflation tube 1627 may extend between the catheter 1602 and

the inflation space 1623, for example, parallel to a proximal strut 1633. The inflation tube 1627

may extend exterior of the proximal strut 1633 (as shown). Alternatively, the inflation tube 1627

may extend interior to the proximal strut 1633. The inflation tube 1627 may connect with the

inflation space 1623 by extending through a wall of the expandable member 1607. Alternatively,

the inflation tube 1627 may connect with the inflation space 1623 by extending through an

interface between the expandable member 1607 and the impeller housing 1603, or by extending

through a wall of impeller housing 1603. The fluidically sealed space 1623 may comprise an

inflation port for expanding the expandable member 1607.

The inflation tube 1627 may comprise an outer surface and a lumen. The inflation tube

1627 preferably provides a sealingly penetrate into the inflation space 1623. The penetration of

the inflation tube 1627 into the inflation space 1623 may comprise a seal of the region of

penetration. The seal may comprise a melting or bonding operation.

FIG. 17 is a side view of an impeller assembly 1701. An expandable member 1707, e.g.,

a balloon, is attached to an outer surface of an impeller housing 1703. The expandable member

1707 may be substantially torpid in shape. The expandable member 1707 is depicted with muted

lines to reveal structures beneath the expandable member 1707. A proximal face 1713 of the

expandable member 1707 extends over a distal inlet region 1715. In this configuration, the

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proximal face 1713 of the expandable member 1707 provides a funnel to converge blood flow

towards inlets of the impeller housing 1703 thereby facilitating blood flow through the device.

The impeller assembly 1701 is dimensioned for inserting into an innominate vein. The

expandable member 1707 is dimensioned such that in a deployed state, the expandable member

1707 opposes walls of the innominate vein to impede, guide, or direct a flow of blood into the

impeller housing 1703. In some embodiments, an inner diameter of the expandable member 1707

is substantially equivalent to the outer diameter of the impeller housing 1703. The inner diameter

of the expandable member 1707 may extend over a portion of the proximal inlets. This

arrangement helps funnel blood into the impeller assembly 1701 without the distal edge of the

inlets disrupting blood flow. In some embodiments, the proximal inlets are substantially D

shaped with rounded features to prevent shearing of blood cells.

The expandable member 1707 may comprises a bonded region, the bonded region

comprising a substantially cylindrical section where the expandable member 1707 is bonded to

the impeller assembly 1701. In some embodiments, the inlet region may comprise a conical

element 1737 coaxial with the impeller. The conical element 1737 may be proximal to the

impeller and may be configured to minimize flow recirculation regions.

FIG. 18 shows an exemplary inlet region 1855 of an impeller assembly 1801. The inlet

region 1855 comprises a conical element 1837 with flow directing features projecting radially

outward from a surface of the conical element 1837. The flow directing features may be aligned

with proximal struts. A drive element 1839 may extend through the conical element 1837 and

connect with an impeller disposed inside the impeller assembly 1601. In the shown embodiment,

an inflation lumen 1827 is exterior of the impeller assembly 1801.

FIG. 19 shows an inlet region 1955 with an internal inflation lumen. The inflation lumen

is internal to the impeller housing 1903. The inflation lumen may connect to and extend through

the conical element 1937. The inflation lumen may, for example, extend through a wall of the

impeller housing 1903. Alternatively, the inflation lumen may be interiorly located within the

impeller housing 1903.

FIG. 20 is a detailed view of a proximal inlet 2055. The proximal inlet 2055 is defined by

proximal struts 2033. The proximal struts 2033 extend parallel to one another connecting a

proximal portion 2041 of the impeller housing 2003 to a distal portion 2043 of the impeller

housing 2003. The proximal struts 2033 are designed such that when the catheter is operating

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inside a patient's body, the proximal struts 2033 may separate and direct a flow of blood into the

impeller housing 2003 without inducing a recirculation flow pattern. The proximal struts 2033

may include a proximal and distal rim 2045, 2047. The proximal struts 2033 and rims 2045,

2047 may, for example, define a generally rectangular inlet region 2055. In some embodiments,

the generally rectangular inlet region 2055 comprises a curved rectangular inlet. The curved

rectangular inlet may have, for example, a bevel around at least a portion of a rim 2045, 2047 of

the inlet 2055. The bevel may provide a gentle transition region for blood to flow into the

impeller housing 2003.

In some embodiments, the proximal struts 2033 comprise a substantially constant width

along a length of the proximal strut 2033. In other embodiments, the width of the proximal struts

2033 may vary, for example, the width of the proximal struts 2033 may be greater at a proximal

end than at a distal end, or vice versa. The proximal struts 2033 may comprise a first wall

thickness and a second wall thickness, wherein said first wall thickness is greater than said

second wall thickness. In some embodiments, the proximal struts 2033 may comprise a tapered

wall thickness.

Preferably, the impeller housing 2003 is substantially cylindrical in shape for easy

passage through an innominate vein. The impeller housing 2003 may comprise a plurality of

inner diameters for manipulating a flow of blood through the impeller housing 2003 and such

that the flow of blood experiences minimal disturbances such as recirculation or vortices within,

or near, the impeller assembly 2001. For example, the impeller housing 2003 may comprise a

first inner diameter D1 and at least a second inner diameter D2 wherein the first inner diameter is

greater than said at least second diameter. In some embodiments, the impeller housing 2003 may

comprise stepped portions defined by changes in inner diameters. In some embodiments, the

impeller housing 2003 may comprise, for example, a tapered diameter, defined by a diminished

or reduced internal diameter along the length of the impeller housing 2003 toward one end.

FIG. 21 shows a side view of an impeller assembly 2101 with rectangular proximal inlets

2155. This configuration may reduce recirculation of blood at a proximal area of the impeller

assembly 2101 by providing a larger inlet area at the distal-most region of the inlet 2147.

FIG. 22 shows an impeller assembly 2201 with arcuate proximal struts 2233. The arcuate

proximal struts 2233 extend longitudinally and radially. In some embodiments, the arcuate

proximal struts 2233 comprise tubular members. The tubular members may be welded to the

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impeller assembly 2201, connecting a proximal portion 2241 of the impeller housing 2203 to a

distal portion 2243 of the impeller housing 2203. The arcuate proximal struts 2233 may connect

to a proximal portion 2241 of the impeller housing 2203 integral with the catheter shaft. The

arcuate proximal struts 2233 may comprise a monolithic structure. The monolithic structure may

comprise a 3D printed structure.

The impeller assembly 2201 may be distally mounted to a catheter shaft (not shown)

comprising a plurality of lumens and at least one of the lumens sealingly connected to an

expandable member 2207 attached to an outer surface of the impeller housing 2203.

FIG. 23 shows a side view of a proximal portion of an impeller assembly 2301. The

proximal portion of the impeller assembly 2301 includes a proximal hub 2383, a proximal inlet

2355, and a body section 2385. The proximal hub 2383 may be configured to facilitate a smooth

flow pattern as fluids, e.g., blood, are directed into the proximal inlet 2355. The hub 2383 may

comprise a substantially circular outer geometry in axial cross section for easy movement within

a vein. The hub 2383 may comprise a tapered geometry. For example, a cross-sectional diameter

of the hub 2383 may decrease along a length of the hub 2383 from a first end to a second end.

The hub 2383 may have a tapered outer geometry that may comprise a proximal diameter, an

intermediate diameter, and a distal diameter wherein the intermediate diameter is greater than

either the proximal diameter or the distal diameter and the transition between proximal,

intermediate, and distal diameters is substantially smooth. The curve between the proximal,

intermediate, and distal diameters may be without an inflection point.

FIG. FIG. 24 24 shows shows an an impeller impeller assembly assembly 2401. 2401. The The impeller impeller assembly assembly 2401 2401 includes includes an an

impeller housing 2403 with an impeller 2405 rotatably disposed therein. An expandable member

2407 depicted with ghosted lines is attached to an outer surface of the impeller housing 2403, the

expandable member 2407 is shown in an expanded state.

The impeller assembly 2401 is designed to facilitate the flow of blood through the

impeller housing 2403. The impeller assembly 2401 may include fillets 2435 under the proximal

end of the proximal struts 2433 to provide mechanical support and prevent recirculation of blood

in these regions when the catheter is inside a vein. In some embodiments, the proximal struts

2433 taper towards their distal ends.

FIG. 25 shows an elongated impeller assembly 2501. The elongated impeller assembly

2501 includes an expandable member 2507 spaced apart from a proximal inlet region 2555. The

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expandable member 2507 may be, for example, approximately 1-25 cm from the proximal inlet

region 2555. Preferably, the expandable member is at least 1 cm from the proximal inlet region

2555.

FIG. 26 shows a cross-sectional view of an impeller assembly 2601. The impeller

assembly 2601 includes an impeller housing 2603 with an impeller 2605 rotatably disposed

therein. The impeller assembly 2601 includes a distal portion 2645. The distal portion 2645 may

include a tip 2647 that is substantially disc shaped. The distal portion 2645 may have at least a a

partially flat surface. The disc-shaped tip 2647 may be spaced apart from a proximal surface of

the distal portion 2645.

The impeller 2605 may comprises a substantially fixed axial position relative to the

impeller housing 2603. The distal portion 2645 may comprise a substantially fixed axial position

relative to the impeller housing 2603. The fixed axial positions of the impeller 2605 and the

distal portion 2645 may define a distal gap 2651 between the distal portion 2645 and the impeller

2605. 2605. The The gap gap 2651 2651 is is preferably preferably greater greater than than 5um. 5um. The The gap gap 2651 2651 may may be be greater greater than than 10um 10um or or

20um. The gap 2651 may be preferably less than 150um, 120um, or 100um. Ideally, the gap

2651 is between 25um and 50um.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of an impeller assembly 2601 inside a vein 2756. The

impeller assembly 2701 comprises an impeller housing 2703 with an impeller 2705 inside. The

impeller housing 2703 has an expandable member 2707 attached to an outer surface of the

impeller housing 2703.

The impeller 2705 includes at least one blade 2753. The blade 2753 comprises a proximal

end and a distal end. A core diameter of the impeller 2705 comprises a proximal end and a distal

end. The core diameter proximal end is proximal of the proximal end of the blade 2753. The

core diameter distal end and the blade distal end terminate substantially at the same axial region.

The core diameter is smallest at the proximal end of the impeller 2705 and largest near the distal

end of the core diameter. The core diameter may comprise a curved tapered surface.

The proximal end of the impeller 2705 core diameter may be spaced apart from the distal

end of a cuff 2761. The proximal end of the impeller 2705 core diameter and the distal end of the

cuff 2761 comprise a controlled proximal gap. The gap 2751 is preferably greater than 5um. The

gap 2751 may be greater than 10um or 20um. The gap 2751 may be preferably less than 150um,

120um, or 100um. Ideally, the gap 2751 is between 25um and 50um.

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The impeller 2705 may comprise an inner diameter, the inner diameter extending through

at least a portion of the length of the impeller 2705 and being coaxial with the impeller 2705.

The impeller 2705 may comprise a bearing arrangement distal of the distal surface. The bearing

surface may include a ball bearing arrangement, for example, a ceramic bearing arrangement or a

PTFE or PEEK bearing surface arrangement.

FIGS. 28A-F illustrates attachment and folding of an expandable member 2807. In

particular, these drawings detail attachment of the expandable member 2807 to an outer surface

of an impeller housing 2803 as wells as folding of the expandable member 2807 when the

expandable member is inflated or when the catheter is being delivered or retrieved.

FIG. 28A is a partial cross-sectional view of an impeller assembly 2801. A portion of the

cross-section demarcated by dashed lines and labeled B shows a portion of the expandable

member 2807 and is enlarged in FIG. 28B. The expandable member 2807 includes at least one

coupling 2863 attaching the expandable member 2807 with the impeller housing 2803. The

coupling 2863 may create a sealed annular space in the expandable member 2807.

The coupling 2863 may comprise a laser weld joint, a solvent weld joint, an adhesive

weld joint, a hot air or heated surface weld joint, or any other similar type of attachment. The

coupling 2863 may comprise a prepared outer surface of the impeller housing 2803 onto which

the expandable member 2807 is attached. For example, the impeller housing 2803 may be

prepared such that the impeller housing 2803 includes at least one of a primed surface, a

chemically activated surface, a plasma activated surface, a mechanically abraded surface, a laser

ablated surface, an etched surface, or a textured surface. The prepared outer surface of the

impeller housing 2803 may comprise a surface roughness, a patterned surface, or a high energy

surface.

Referring to FIG. 28B, the expandable member 2807 may include at least one neck 2867,

the neck 2867 may be dimensioned for joining with the impeller housing 2803. The expandable

member 2807 may comprises a joint distal end 2831 and a joint proximal end 2832. The shape of

the distal end 2831 may be configured to change as the expandable member is inflated/deflated

(compare FIGS. 28B, 28D, and 28E) or when the catheter is moved inside a vein. In particular,

the joint distal end 2831 may comprise a distal neck segment joined to the impeller housing 2803

and a distal transition segment 2845 that is integral with the neck 2867 but not attached to the

impeller housing 2803. As the expandable member 2807 is inflated, the distal transition segment

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2867 may fold inward. The joint proximal end may comprise a neck 2832 joined to the impeller

housing 2803 and a proximal transition segment that is integral with the neck but not joined to

the impeller housing. The expandable member 2807 may be configured to be substantially rigid

in the expanded configuration. The expandable member 2807 may be configured to be

conformable in the expanded configuration. The expandable member 2807 may be made from a

polyurethane, or pebax or nylon material. The expandable member 2807 may be made from

polytetrafluoroethylene. polytetrafluoroethylene.

FIG. FIG. 28C 28C is is aa partial partial cross-sectional cross-sectional view view of of the the impeller impeller assembly assembly 2801 2801 in in which which the the

expandable member 2807 is partially inflated. The portion of the partial cross-section showing

the expandable member 2807 (labeled D) is enlarged in FIG. 28D. Notably, the shape of the

distal neck changes as the expandable member 2807 is inflated (compare FIG. 28D in which the

expandable member is partially inflated to FIG. 28B in which the expandable member is fully

inflated).

FIG. 28E is a partial cross-sectional view of the impeller assembly 2801 with moderately

inflated expandable member 2807. The portion of the partial cross-section showing the

expandable member 2807 (labeled F) is enlarged in FIG. 28F. In particular, the expandable

member 2807 is inflated more than the expandable member 2807 illustrated in FIG. 28D. Upon

inflating the expandable member 2807, the distal transition segment 2845 may fold outward

eliminating a potential recirculation zone at the interface between the balloon and housing 2803.

FIG. 29 shows an impeller assembly 2901 with an expandable member 2907 having an

elongated surface 2974 for interfacing with a wall of a blood vessel. The elongated surface 2974

increases an interaction between the blood vessel and the impeller assembly 2901 to restrict

movement of the impeller assembly inside the blood vessel. The expandable member 2907 may

comprise a compliant material. The compliant material may be a polyurethane or silicone. The

compliant material may stretch 100% to 800%, thus creating an elongated surface 2974. In other

embodiments, the expandable member 2907 may comprise a non-compliant material, which may

expand to one specific size or size range, even as internal pressure increases.

FIG. 30 shows an impeller assembly 3001 with a two-part expandable member 3007. The

two-part expandable member 3007 includes a first part 3065 comprising a compliant material

and a second part 3066 comprising a non-compliant material. The first part 3065 and second part

3066 may be attached to each other and to the impeller housing 3003 to define an annular space

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for inflation. Preferably, the first part 3065 of the expandable member 3007 comprises a portion

of the expandable member 3007 that interacts with a wall of a blood vein during operating of the

catheter.

FIG. 31 is a partial cross-sectional view of a distal portion of a catheter 3101. The distal

portion of the catheter 3101 is attached to an impeller housing 3103 with an expandable member

3107 mounted to an outer surface of the impeller housing 3103. The impeller housing 3103 is

connected to a distal portion of a catheter 3101 by a plurality of proximal struts 3133. The

proximal struts 3133 preferably comprise a flexible material, for example, latex, silicone, or

Teflon, to provide for easier navigation inside a vein of a patient. The proximal struts 3133 may

be configured to conform to anatomical curvatures. A drive shaft 3139 connecting a motor to an

impeller disposed inside the impeller housing 3103 may comprise a flexible drive cable.

FIG. 32 is a partial cross-section of a self-expanding impeller assembly 3201. The

impeller assembly 3201 comprises an impeller housing 3203 with an impeller 3205 disposed

therein. An expandable body 3207 is attached to a surface of the impeller housing 3203 between

proximal inlets 3255 and distal outlets 3258.

In an expanded configuration, the expandable body 3207 is configured to oppose a wall

of a vein over a longitudinal segment of the vein. The longitudinal segment of apposition extends

proximal of the proximal inlets 3255. The longitudinal segment of apposition extends distal of

the distal inlets 3258. The expandable body 3207 is configured to provide a proximal flow

directing funnel that extends from a region of apposition with the vessel wall to the distal end of

the inlets 3255. The proximal flow directing funnel is configured to promote converging flow

pattern at the entrance to the proximal inlets 3255. The expandable body 3207 may be configured

to provide a distal flow directing funnel that extends from a proximal region of the outlets 3258

to a region of apposition with the vessel wall to the distal end of the outlets 3258. The distal flow

directing funnel may be configured to promote diverging flow pattern distal of the exit of the

outlets 3258. The diverging flow pattern may be configured SO so as to impart a gradual

deceleration of fluid distal of the outlets and maintain a larger proportion of the pressure gain

developed by the impeller 3205 by reducing recirculating or negative velocity flow patterns.

The expandable body 3207 may comprise a nitinol membrane, a non-compliant

membrane, or a porous membrane. The longitudinal segment of the expandable body 3207 may

comprise a compliant material. Preferably, the flow directing funnels of the expandable body

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3207 comprise a relatively less compliant material (or a semi compliant material or a non-

compliant material).

The catheter 3200 may comprise a plurality of pull wires 3279 attached to the expandable

body 3207 and configured to facilitate collapse of the expandable body 3207 in preparation for

the removal of the catheter 3200 from the body.

FIG. 33 shows a partial cross-section of an impeller assembly 3301. The impeller

assembly 3301 comprises proximal struts 3333 attaching a proximal portion 3341 of the impeller

assembly 3301 to a distal portion 3343 of the impeller assembly 3301. At least one proximal

strut 3333 comprises an inflation lumen, i.e., an integrated inflation channel, extending through

the proximal strut 3333 to an interior of an expandable member 3307 that is attached to an outer

surface of the impeller assembly 3301. The inflation lumen provides a structure for inflating the

expandable member 3307. The inflation lumen is preferably terminated within the inlet to

minimize disruption to the flow inside the housing. This is facilitated by the more proximally

positioned expandable member 3307.

FIG. 34 shows an inlet 3433 of an impeller assembly 3401. The inlet 3433 is configured

to provide easier fluid flow into the assembly 3401. This configuration includes a proximal hub

3480 with at least one flow basin 3481. The flow basin 3481 extends from a proximal region of

the proximal hub 3480 and terminates at the inlet 3433. The flow basin 3481 extends between a

first and second strut 3433, 3434. The flow basin 3481 may be configured to modulate a flow of

blood upstream of the inlets. For example, the flow basin 3481 may progressively slope inwards

along the length of the flow basin 3481 towards the inlet 3433.

FIG. 35 is an exemplary catheter system 3500. In particular, FIG. 35 illustrates a catheter

3500 according to aspects of the invention to show interactions between an impeller assembly

3501 of the catheter 3500 and a blood vessel wall 3556. The catheter 3500 includes the impeller

assembly 3501, a catheter shaft 3581, a proximal expandable member 3508, a hub 3583 and a

motor (not shown).

The impeller assembly 3501 is dimensioned for placement inside a blood vessel with a

shaft 3581 extending from the impeller assembly 3501 to a position exterior of the patient. The

shaft 3581 may comprise a multilumen shaft. A first proximal expandable member 3508 is

attached to the shaft 3581 and may be configured to restrict a flow of blood to the impeller

assembly 3501.

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A motor may be connected to an impeller housed within the impeller assembly 3501 and

may be configured to drive the impeller at high RPMs. The impeller assembly 3501 may

comprise a distal expandable member 3507 mounted onto an outer surface of an impeller

housing 3503 and wrapping around the impeller housing 3503, for example, like an expandable

ring. The distal expandable member 3503 may be configured to appose a vessel wall 3556 during

operation of the catheter.

The proximal expandable member 3508 may be mounted on the catheter shaft 3581

proximal of the impeller assembly 3501. The proximal expandable member 3508 may be spaced

apart from the impeller assembly 3501. For example, the proximal expandable member 3508

may be a distance of 1-10 cm upstream of the impeller assembly 3501, preferably about no more

than about 5 cm.

The proximal expandable member 3508 may be dimensioned for placement (inflation)

between the vessel access site and an outflow port of a thoracic duct 3585. The expandable

members 3507, 3508 are preferably configured to atraumatically contact a vessel wall.

In some embodiments, a proximal expandable member 3508 may be configured to reduce

a volume of blood flowing in the vessel by impeding a flow of flood. The proximal expandable

member 3508 may be configured to adjust the volume of blood flowing in the vessel by

impeding, restricting, guiding, or directing the flow of blood. For example, the proximal

expandable member 3508 may include an orifice for fluid to flow across the expandable member

3508 while the expandable member 3508 is in an expanded state. For example, the orifice may

substantially comprise one of an annular ring or a crescent shape with a lumen through a body of

the expandable member 3508. The orifice may comprise a valley or a recess in the outer surface

of the expandable member 3508. The orifice may comprise a channel underneath the expandable

member 3508. The expandable member 3508 may comprise a shape that defines the orifice. For

example, the expandable member 3508 may be shaped at least partially as a spherical, conical, or

cylindrical shape and the orifice comprises an annular ring or a crescent. The expandable

member 3508 shape may comprise, for example, a double D shape and the orifice may be

defined by surfaces between the two joining shapes. The expandable member 3508 may

comprise a helical shape wrapped around the catheter shaft 3581 and the orifice may comprise a

channel defined by a space between adjacent spirals.

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The proximal expandable member 3581 may comprises a compliant material and the

compliant material may comprise a compliance-pressure relationship. The expandable member

3581 may be processed SO so the compliance pressure relationship is repeatable. The expandable

member 3581 may comprise an annealed member. The expandable member 3581 may be

configured to achieve a precise diameter at a given pressure. The expandable member 3581 may

be configured to have minimal hysteresis when inflated, deflated and inflated again.

The hub 3583 may be configured to facilitate inflation of a distal expandable member

3507, and may be configured to at least partially inflate the proximal expandable member 3508.

For example, the hub 3583 may include access to one or more lumens that extend through the

catheter shaft 3581 and connect to a proximal and/or distal expandable member 3508, 3507. The

expandable members can be inflated by infusing a fluid into the lumens at the hub 3583. The hub

3583 may be configured to inflate the proximal expandable member 3508 into apposition with an

innominate vessel.

The device may comprise a connector cable 3585 configured to connect the catheter to a

console (not shown), the console may comprise a computer with hardware, software and a user

interface. The console can be configured to operate the device.

FIG. 36 shows a catheter 3600 with an expandable member 3608 slidably mounted along

a shaft 3681 of the catheter 3600. The catheter 3600 comprises a first catheter shaft 3681 and a

second catheter shaft 3682. The catheter 3600 includes an impeller assembly 3601 attached to a

distal end of the first catheter shaft 3681. The proximal expandable member 3608 mounted near

a distal end of said second catheter shaft 3682.

The first catheter shaft 3681 may comprise a multilumen tubing wherein a first lumen is

configured to facilitate inflation of a distal expandable member 3607 and a second lumen is

configured to transmit mechanical or electrical energy to facilitate the operation and control of an

impeller disposed within the impeller assembly 3601.

The second catheter shaft 3682 may comprise a multilumen tubing wherein a first lumen

is configured to encapsulate the first catheter shaft 3681 and a second lumen is configured to

inflate the proximal expandable member 3608. The first and second catheter shafts 3681, 3682

may be configured to facilitate relative axial movement (indicated by arrows) between the distal

expandable member 3607 and the proximal expandable member 3608. The relative axial

movement may be limited distally. The relative axial movement may be is limited proximally.

44

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The catheter 3600 may include a first stop and a second stop and axial movement of second shaft

3682 may be limited by the first and second stops. The first and second stops may be mounted on

the first shaft 3681, exterior of the patient (inside or around the hub). The axial movement may

comprise fine movements. The fine movements may comprise, for example, a thread or ratchet

mechanism.

Relative axial movement between the distal expandable member 3607 and the proximal

expandable member 3608 may provide better anatomical placement, i.e., accurate placement of

the distal expandable member 3607 in the innominate vein and then accurate placement of the

proximal expandable member 3608 between the vessel wall access site and the thoracic duct.

The first and second shafts 3681, 3682 may extend exterior of the patient. The second

shaft 3682 may be coupled and decoupled to the first shaft during use. In a collapsed state, the

catheter may be dimensioned for advancement through a valve and lumen of a sheath. The

second shaft 3682 may comprise a distal segment and a proximal segment. The distal segment

may comprise a tubular member and an inflation lumen with the proximal expandable member

sealingly welded (bonded) to a distal segment SO so as to create an inflation space in the expandable

member 3607 that is in fluid communication with the inflation lumen.

The proximal segment of the second shaft may comprise an inflation lumen and a

member configured to transmit axial push and pull forces to the distal segment of the second

shaft 3682. The proximal segment of the second shaft may be concentric or eccentric with the

first shaft. The inflation lumen of the proximal segment may be integral with a wall of the

proximal segment of the second shaft.

FIG. 37 shows a fluid channel across an expandable member 3708 that allows a

controlled amount of blood flow. The proximal expandable member 3708 may be configured to

oppose a wall of a vessel. The proximal expandable member 3708 may comprise a flow channel

3706, the flow channel 3706 defining a lumen through the body of the expandable member 3708.

Flow is indicated by black arrows. The flow channel 3706 may comprise a collapsed state and an

expanded configuration. The flow channel 3706 may be configured to expand when the

expandable member 3708 is inflated. The expandable member 3708 may comprise at least one

inner membrane, the inner membrane may be configured to support the body flow channel 3706

in the expanded state. The proximal expandable member 3708 may be configured to allow 100ml

or more or more fluid fluid to to cross cross the the expandable expandable member member 3708 3708 per per minute. minute.

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FIG. 38 shows a catheter 3800 with an alternative bypass channel 3806. A second shaft

3882 comprises a tubular member with a distal end and a proximal end and a lumen 3883

extending through both distal and proximal ends. The lumen 3883 may be sized to provide a

fluid flow pathway underneath the inflated expandable member 3808 in a distal segment. The

second shaft 3882 may comprise an entry port 3885 at the proximal end of the distal segment of

the second shaft 3882, the entry port may be configured to facilitate blood flow into said fluid

flow pathway.

FIG. FIG. 39 39 shows shows aa patient patient interface interface 3900 3900 with with aa sheath sheath 3904 3904 in in situation. situation. AA proximal proximal

expandable member, a flow entry port, and pressure sensor, may be on the sheath. The catheter

system may comprise a catheter and a flow control sheath 3904, the catheter comprising an

impeller assembly impeller assemblyat at a distal end of a distal endanof elongated shaft, the an elongated flow the shaft, control flowsheath 3904sheath control comprising 3904 comprising

a flow restrictor, a fluid channel and a pressure sensor.

The system may be configured for transdermal insertion into a vein of a patient 3908.

Insertion of the catheter comprises transdermal insertion in a region of the neck. The flow control

sheath 3904 may be configured for placement SO so as to provide an access platform for other

components of the system. The flow control sheath 3904 may comprise a flow restrictor adjacent

a tip. The flow restrictor may comprise an expanded state and a collapsed state. In the collapsed

state the flow restrictor may be configured to collapse completely onto the shaft of the sheath. In

the collapsed state, the OD of the flow restrictor may be substantially the same as the shaft of the

sheath. The restrictor may sit in an annular recess in a diameter of the shaft of the flow control

sheath in the collapsed configuration. In the expanded configuration, the flow restrictor may be

configured to at least partially restrict fluid flow through the jugular vein. The flow restrictor

may be configured to control the rate of flow through the jugular vein. The flow restrictor may

be configured to prevent inadvertent displacement of the flow control sheath during the

procedure.

The flow control sheath may comprise a pressure sensor, the pressure sensor may be

configured to measure pressure in a vein upstream of the restrictor. The sheath may comprise a

lumen in a wall of the sheath and the pressure sensor may be positioned in said lumen. The

pressure sensing lumen may comprise a port, the port may be configured to establish a

hydrostatic connection between blood in the vein and the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor

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and the pressure sensing lumen may be sized to prevent blood flow ingress into the pressure

sensing lumen.

FIG. FIG. 40 40 shows shows aa patient patient interface interface 4000 4000 with with aa sheath sheath 4004 4004 held held in in situation situation by by an an

adhering membrane 4010. The adhering member 4010 helps maintain a sterile region around an

access site and secures a hub 4080 of the sheath 4004 to the skin. This reduces irritation to the

patient by movement of the hub 4080 made by accidental forces. The membrane 4010 may be

shaped SO so as to allow second or tertiary layers to be added to tie all of the various system

elements of the sheath 4004 or catheter together or to the skin.

FIG. 41 shows a flow control sheath 4150. Shown are various features of the flow control

sheath 4150 according to some preferred embodiments. In particular, the flow control sheath

4150 may include a restrictor 4151 (shown in an inflated state), a sheath tip 4152, a port 4153, a

pressure sensor 4154, a sheath shaft 4155, and a hub 4159, the hub 4159 including a pressure

sensor lead 4156, an inflation side port 4157, a flushing and infusion side port 4158. At least one

suturing hole may be added to the hub 4159 to facilitate fixation to the patient.

FIG. 42 shows a proximal portion of a catheter system 4200. A catheter 4269 that is

similar to the catheter described in FIG. 40 is disposed within a catheter sheath 4280. The

catheter 4269 includes a shaft 4270, a proximal expandable member 4271 (depicted in an

expanded state), and a catheter pressure sensor 4273. The sheath 4280 includes a sheath tip 4272,

a sheath pressure sensor 4274, a sheath shaft 4275, a pressure sensor lead 4276, an inflation side

port 4277, and hub 4278.

FIG. 43 illustrates a locking mechanism 4300 for fixing a catheter shaft 4392 to a hub

4391 of a sheath 4390 during therapy. The locking mechanism 4300 includes an arm 4396 with a

catheter shaft grip 4395 attached to a distal end of the arm 4396. When engaged, the catheter

shaft grip 4395 attaches to the catheter shaft 4392 preventing movement. The locking mechanism

4300 is advantageous because it prevents migration of a distal expandable member of the

catheter system, described above, during therapy. The locking mechanism 4300 is configured to

lock the catheter shaft 4392 to the sheath 4390 during at least a portion of the procedure.

The locking mechanism 4300 may be configured for easy engagement and

disengagement. The locking mechanism may be configured to prevent relative movement

between the catheter distal balloon and the access sheath 4390. The locking mechanism 4300

may comprise a clip 4395 on locking mechanism 4300; the clip on mechanism 4300 may be

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configured to be clipped onto the catheter shaft 4392 from one side of the shaft 4392. The

locking mechanism 4300 may be pre-mounted on the catheter shaft 4392 such that the locking

mechanism 4300 may slide into position when fixation is required.

The locking mechanism may be integral with the sheath. The locking mechanism may

optionally attach to the sheath. Preferably, the locking mechanism may be a Tuohy Borst type

locking mechanism.

FIG. 44 shows the locking mechanism 4300 engaged with the catheter shaft.

FIG. 45 shows a schematic of a push lock mechanism 4500.

FIG. 46 shows an alternative locking mechanism 4600. The locking mechanism 4600

includes an arm 4696 attached to a hub 4691 of a sheath 4690. The arm 4696 includes a catheter

shaft grip 4695 attached to a distal end of the arm 4696. When engaged, the catheter shaft grip

4695 attaches to the catheter shaft 4692 preventing movement. A further embodiment of a

locking system may include a C shaped shaft which may be secured over the catheter shaft

proximal to the sheath. The shaft would be configured SO so that when the shaft is slid into the

sheath hub it creates an interference lock between the catheter shaft OD and Sheath ID.

FIG. 47 is a partial cutaway of a jugular vein 4752 showing a flow control sheath 4750

inserted therein. The restrictor 4751 of the sheath 4750 is shown in a deployed state with the

restrictor 4751 opposing a wall of the jugular vein 4752. In a preferred position, the shaft 4755 of

the sheath 4750 terminates adjacent to a junction of the subclavian vein 4753 and the thoracic

duct 4756. The hub 4759 is external to the jugular vein 4752.

FIG. FIG. 48 48 shows shows an an indwelling indwelling catheter catheter system system 4800 4800 according according to to aspects aspects of of the the invention. invention.

The indwelling catheter system 4800 includes a catheter shaft 4851 with an impeller assembly

4861 mounted to a distal portion thereof. The catheter shaft 4851 includes a proximal expandable

member 4850 attached to an outer surface of the catheter shaft 4851. The proximal expandable

member 4850 comprises a flow channel 4854 that allows fluid to bypass the proximal

expandable member 4850 at a controllable rate.

FIG. 49 is a cross-section taken along line A-A of FIG. 48 to reveal internal lumens of

the catheter shaft 4851. The internal lumens extend internally through the catheter shaft 4851.

Shown is a proximal expandable member lumen 4901 for delivering fluids, i.e., gas or a liquid,

used to inflate the proximal expandable member 4850. A separate distal expandable member

lumen 4902 is provided for delivering fluids to inflate the distal expandable member 4862. The

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separate lumens allow the proximal and distal expandable members 4850, 4862 to be

manipulated independently of one another during therapeutic treatments. A pressure sensor

lumen 4966 is provided for sending and receiving electrical signals with one or more pressure

sensors disposed on the catheter system 4800. One or more reinforcement lumens 4930 may be

provided to reinforce the catheter 4800 SO so that the catheter 4800 can be more easily navigated

through the body.

FIG. 50 is an indwelling catheter 5000. The catheter 5000 includes mechanical

components, e.g., an impeller 5005 and/or drive shaft 5007, and a purge system. The purge

system operates to exclude biological fluids and materials from the catheter 5000 and mechanical

components operating within the catheter 5000. In that manner, body fluids are prevented from

entering the crevasses of the catheter 5000, ensuring smooth and efficient operation of the

mechanical mechanical parts, parts, e.g., e.g., impeller impeller 5005 5005 and and drive drive shaft shaft 5007, 5007, within within the the catheter catheter 5000 5000 while while also also

preventing preventing the the patient's patient's body body fluid fluid from from travelling travelling to to aa proximal proximal portion portion of of the the catheter catheter 5000 5000

outside of the patient's body, where it could leak out of the catheter. The purge system would

further prevent air entering the vein though the same channels.

The catheter 5000 may be used to reduce pressure in a region of a venous system. The

catheter 5000 includes an impellor assembly 5009 mounted at the distal end of the catheter 5000.

The impellor assembly 5009 comprises an expandable member 5013, a cage 5015 with an inlet

region 5017 and an outlet region 5019 and an impellor therein. The impellor 5005 may rotate at

high RPMs within the cage 5015. The impellor 5005 may further include a distal surface, a

proximal surface and an impellor blade surface. The distal surface, proximal surface and impeller

blade surface configured to rotate in close proximity to adjacent surfaces inside the cage, but

without contacting said adjacent surfaces.

The impellor assembly 5009 may further comprise a cuff 5023. The cuff 5023 may

include a distal surface 5025 and a proximal surface 5027. The impeller 5005 rotates in clearance

of the distal surface of a cuff 5023.

The clearance between the cuff distal surface 5025 and the impeller 5005 comprises a

proximal gap 5029 and the proximal gap 5029 is configured to remain fixed during operation.

The proximal gap 5029 is configured to define a transition between a static cuff and a rotating

impeller 5005. The proximal gap 5029 is configured to allow blood to flow across the proximal

gap 5029 without flow disturbance, flow recirculation, or vortices. The proximal gap 5029 may

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

be in fluid communication with a catheter lumen which is in fluid communication with a fluid

reservoir exterior of the patient. The proximal gap 5029 may be configured to prevent blood flow

from entering the proximal gap 5029.

In preferred embodiments, the proximal gap 5029 includes a resistive fluid pressure

configured to prevent blood from entering the proximal gap. For example, the resistive fluid may

be a purge fluid delivered from a fluid reservoir external to the patient. The purge fluid can be

used to purge or flush the proximal gap 5029 clearing debris; for example, as described in co-

owned U.S. Provision Application 62/629,914, which is incorporated herein by reference. The

resistive fluid pressure may comprise a hydrostatic fluid pressure, which may include a pulse of

fluid pressure. The fluid pressure comprises a solution that may include saline, dextrose or a

heparin solution.

The viscosity of the purge solution may be tailored to effectively purge small gaps and

orifices. The solution may also be immiscible with blood to prevent blood contact with the

purges surfaces. For example, the solution may be a hydrophobic solution. In some

embodiments, the proximal gap 5029 may include a seal, such as, for example, a spring loaded

seal.

A clearance between a distal-most surface of the impellor 5005 and a tip 5031 comprising

a bearing housing 5033 may comprise a distal gap 5041 and the distal gap 5041 may be

configured to remain fixed during operation. The distal gap 5041 may be configured to define a

transition between a rotating impeller 5005 and a static tip 5031. The distal gap 5041 may be

configured to allow blood to flow across the distal gap without flow disturbance, recirculation, or

vortices.

In preferred embodiments, the distal gap 5041 is in fluid communication with a catheter

lumen which is in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir exterior of the patient. The distal

gap 5041 may be configured to prevent blood flow from entering the distal gap, for example, by

providing a purge from the fluid reservoir as discussed above. The distal gap 5041 may comprise

a resistive fluid pressure configured to prevent blood from entering the distal gap. The resistive

fluid pressure comprises a hydrostatic fluid pressure. The resistive fluid pressure comprises a

pulse of fluid pressure. The fluid pressure comprises a solution, for example, a saline, dextrose or

a heparin solution. The viscosity of the purge solution may be tailored to effectively purge small

gaps and orifices. The solution may also be immiscible with blood to prevent blood contact with

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

the purges surfaces. The solution may be a hydrophobic solution. The distal gap 5041 may

comprise a seal, such as, for example, a spring loaded seal.

FIG. 51 is an expanded view of dotted circle B of FIG. 50 according to an embodiment of

the invention. In this embodiment, fluid is delivered from a purge channel 5101 extending along

a central lumen of the device. The purge channel may be external to a PTFE liner that surrounds

a central lumen of the catheter.

FIG. 52 is an expanded view of dotted circle B of FIG. 50 according to another

embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, purge fluid is delivered from the reservoir

exterior of the patient via a purge channel 5201 that travels through a lumen used for inflating

the expandable member 5013. The purge channel 5201 is external to a PTFE liner of a drive

cable.

embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, purge fluid is delivered from a purge channel

5301, the purge channel 5301 extending through a PTFE liner that surrounds a drive lumen.

FIG. 54 illustrates a distal flush of an indwelling catheter 5400. The flush, i.e., purge

fluid, is delivered via a lumen 5403 of the expandable member 5407. The purge travels through

the lumen 5403 and through a distal bearing housing 5411, preventing blood flood flow into

bearings of the catheter. The purge fluid flows into the distal gap 5431 flushing and preventing

blood from filling the distal gap 5431. The purge fluid travels down a second lumen 5437 to a

proximal gap 5439 and flushes blood from the proximal gap 5439.

FIG. 55 illustrates distal flush of an indwelling catheter 5500 according to a different

embodiment. In this embodiment, the purge fluid is delivered via a purge lumen 5505 that is

separate and distinct of the lumen for inflating the expandable member 5507. The purge travels

through the purge lumen 5505 and into a distal bearing housing 5511, thereby preventing blood

flood flow into bearings of the catheter. The purge fluid flows into the distal gap 5531 flushing

and preventing blood from filling the distal gap 5531. The purge fluid then travels down a

second lumen 5537 to a proximal gap 5539 to flush blood from the proximal gap 5539.

FIG. 56 shows an indwelling catheter 5600 with a purge system. The catheter 5600

includes a central lumen 5603 optimized for transporting purge fluid and maintaining

concentricity of the catheter 5600 assembly. The internal structures of the central lumen 5306

51

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

can have various configurations some of which are detailed below in cross-sections taken

through a cuff 5606 along line A-A.

FIG. FIG. 57 57 shows shows aa cross-section cross-section of of the the central central lumen lumen 5603 5603 taken taken along along line line A-A A-A of of FIG. FIG. 56 56

according to one embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, a purge channel 5709 is

external to a drive shaft 5711 that connects a motor to an impeller of the device. Between the

purge channel and the drive shaft 5711 is a profiled extrusion 5713. The profiled extrusion 5713

includes a number of projections 5715, for example, at least two projections 5715, and preferably

three projections 5715, the projections 5715 extend outward from a central hub 5717 that encases

the drive shaft 5711. The profiled extrusion 5713 optimizes a purge cross sectional area and also

helps to maintain assembly concentricity.

FIG. 58 shows a cross-section of the central lumen 5603 taken along line A-A of FIG. 56

according to a different embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, a purge channel 5809

is in association with the drive shaft 5711 connecting the motor to the impeller of the device. The

purge channel 5809 is defined by a profiled extrusion 5813. The profiled extrusion 5813 includes

a a number numberofofprojections 5815, projections for example, 5815, at least for example, at two projections least 5815, and 5815, two projections preferably and three preferably three

projections 5815, the projections 5815 extending inward from an outer hub 5817 that encases the

drive shaft 5711. The profiled extrusion 5813 defines and optimizes a purge cross-sectional area

and maintains assembly concentricity.

FIG. 59 shows a cross-section of the central lumen 5603 taken along line A-A of FIG. 56

according to another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the central lumen 5603

houses a coil drive shaft 5905 connecting the motor to the impeller of the device. A purge

channel 5909 surrounds the coil drive shaft 5905. The purge channel 5909 is defined by an outer

hub 5911 that encases the coil drive shaft 5905.

FIG. 60 shows an optimized guide surface 6001 of a cage inlet 6003. With reference to

FIG. 27, the optimized guide surface 6001 comprises a portion of a cuff 6007 that tapers towards

the impeller 6011 in harmony with an outer boundary surface 6015. The optimized guide surface

6001 maintains axial momentum and prevents recirculation of fluid 6017 flowing into the cage

assembly 6021. In particular, the optimized guide surface 6001 tapers in a manner that creates a

flow field convergence and minimizes fluid divergence in the inlet region 6003. The optimized

guide surface 6001 may comprise a curved tapered section. The optimized guide surface 6001

may be configured to smoothly reduce the cross sectional area along the length of the inlet 6003.

WO wo 2020/174285 PCT/IB2020/000184

For example, the change in cross sectional area of the optimized guide surface 6001 along the

length of the inlet 6003 may be less than or equal to about 1 mm². The optimized guide surface

6001 may comprise a curved taper. The optimized guide surface 6001 may comprises a

cylindrical section. The optimized guide surface 6001 may comprise a substantially conical

section.

In some embodiments, the outer boundary surface 6015 tapers over at least a portion of

the inlet region 6003. With reference to FIG. 17, the outer boundary surface 6015 may comprise

a proximal surface of an expandable member. Alternatively, the outer boundary surface 6015

may comprise an inner surface of the cage.

FIG. 61 shows a suboptimal guide surface 6105. The suboptimal guide surface 6105 may

cause disturbances in flow 6107 of fluid flowing into the inlet region 6111. In particular, the

suboptimal guide surface 6105 comprises a steeper profile as compared to the optimized guide

surface 6017 of FIG. 60. The steeper profile causes changes in axial momentum and fluid

divergence of blood flowing into the inlet region 6111. These disturbances in flow 6107 are

prevented by with the optimized guide surface 6017.

FIG. 62 shows a cage inlet 6201. Illustrated is an optimal configuration where fluid flow

6207 is aligned with the inlet 6201 along an optimized guiding surface 6017. The flow 6207 is

primarily in the X-direction with no rotational component which promotes a smoothly flowing

inlet 6201.

FIG. 63 shows a suboptimal inlet 6301 configuration. This suboptimal configuration

includes a steep guide surface 6105 that causes recirculation and stalls the flow in the inlet. A

rotational component of the velocity dominates and carries the flow underneath the inlet struts

6215. This phenomenon creates disrupted flow 6217 in the inlet 6301 and reduces the

effectiveness of the inlet 6301 to guide flow towards the impeller.

Incorporation by Reference

References and citations to other documents, such as patents, patent applications, patent

publications, journals, books, papers, web contents, have been made throughout this disclosure.

All such documents are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

Equivalents

Various modifications of the invention and many further embodiments thereof, in

addition to those shown and described herein, will become apparent to those skilled in the art

from the full contents of this document, including references to the scientific and patent literature

cited herein. The subject matter herein contains important information, exemplification and

guidance that can be adapted to the practice of this invention in its various embodiments and

equivalents thereof. The scope of the present invention is not intended to be limited to any one

exemplary embodiment shown or described herein. Rather, any one or more features of any

exemplary embodiment shown or described may be combined with any other embodiment SO so

long as the combination does not render the invention inoperable.

Claims

55 What is claimed claimedis: is: 03 Jun 2025 2020230048 03 Jun 2025 What is

1. 1. A device A device comprising: comprising: aa catheter comprising catheter comprising a proximal a proximal portion portion and a portion; and a distal distal portion; an impellerhousing an impeller housing attached attached to distal to the the distal portion portion of theof the catheter catheter with anwith an impeller impeller

disposed therein; disposed therein; and and

an an expandable member aligned over an an outside of of thethe impeller housing, wherein an an 2020230048

expandable member aligned over outside impeller housing, wherein

exterior surfaceofofthetheexpandable exterior surface expandable member member is physically is physically coupledtodirectly coupled directly to the exterior the exterior

surface surface of of the the impeller impeller housing, housing, and and wherein the expandable wherein the member expandable member expands expands and and directs directs

fluid flowtotoananinlet fluid flow inletofofthe theimpeller impeller housing. housing.

2. 2. The device The deviceof of claim claim 1, 1, wherein whereinthe the exterior exterior surface surface of of the theexpandable expandable member member isis

physically coupled directly to the exterior surface of the impeller housing without any physically coupled directly to the exterior surface of the impeller housing without any

membrane,sheath, membrane, sheath,orordevice devicebetween betweenthethe exteriorsurf exterior surface aceofof the the expandable expandablemember memberandand the the

exterior surfaceofofthetheimpeller exterior surface impeller housing. housing.

3. 3. The device The deviceof of claim claim 1, 1, wherein whereinthe the expandable expandablemember member surrounds, surrounds, and and is attached is attached at at least least partially to aa proximal partially to proximalendend of of thethe impeller impeller housing. housing.

4. 4. The device The deviceof of claim claim 1, 1, wherein whereinthe the expandable expandablemember memberis ais balloon a balloon that,when that, when expanded, definesaa toroidal expanded, defines toroidal shape and wherein shape and whereinaaproximal proximalsurface surfaceofofthe thetoroidal toroidal shape shape directs fluid into directs fluid into the theimpeller impellerhousing. housing.

5. 5. The device of claim 4, wherein the balloon is inflatable and further wherein the The device of claim 4, wherein the balloon is inflatable and further wherein the

balloon surrounds and is attached to, a proximal end of the impeller housing, and further balloon surrounds and is attached to, a proximal end of the impeller housing, and further

wherein thetoroidal wherein the toroidal shape shape funnels funnels fluidfluid into into an an inlet inlet of theof the impeller impeller housing. housing.

6. 6. The device The deviceof of claim claim 1, 1, wherein whereinthe the impeller impeller housing housingcomprises comprisesa ametal metaland anda aportion portion of of the the expandable member expandable member is isphysically physicallycoupled coupledtoto a asurface surfaceofofthe the metal metalby byan anadhesive. adhesive.

7. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of the surf ace of the metal is The device of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of the surf ace of the metal is

impregnated witha apolymer impregnated with polymertotopromote promote bonding bonding to the to the adhesive. adhesive.

8. 8. The device The deviceof of claim claim 1, 1, further further comprising: comprising:

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aa motor housingconnected connectedtotothe theproximal proximalportion portionofofthe thecatheter; catheter; 03 Jun 2025 2020230048 03 Jun 2025

motor housing

aa motor disposedwithin motor disposed withinthe the motor motorhousing; housing; aa drive cableextending drive cable extending through through the catheter the catheter from from the thetomotor motor to the impeller; the impeller; and and an an inflation inflation lumen lumen extending alongthe extending along the catheter catheter to to the the expandable member. expandable member.

9. 9. A method A methodofofusing usingthe thedevice deviceofofclaim claim11for for treating treating edema, the method edema, the comprising method comprising

inserting thedistal distalportion portionofofthethecatheter catheter into an an innominate vein of a patient, operating the 2020230048

inserting the into innominate vein of a patient, operating the

impeller, and impeller, and expanding the expandable expanding the expandablemember member to thereby to thereby decrease decrease pressure pressure at lymphatic at a a lymphatic duct. duct.

10. 10. A device A device comprising: comprising: aa catheter witha aproximal catheter with proximal portion portion and aand a distal distal portion, portion, the distal the distal portion portion dimensioned dimensioned

for for insertion insertioninto intoa a lumen lumenof ofa apatient patientand comprising and comprisingaahousing housing having having aa pump disposed pump disposed

within the within the housing; housing; and and

an an expandable member expandable member connected connected to the to the pump, pump, wherein wherein the expandable the expandable member, member,

when notexpanded, when not expanded,isisdisposed disposedaround around theproximal the proximal portion portion of of thehousing the housing such such thatanan that

exterior surfaceofofthetheexpandable exterior surface expandable member member is physically is physically coupledtodirectly coupled directly to an exterior an exterior

surface surface of of the the housing, housing, and and wherein whenexpanded, wherein when expanded, theexpandable the expandable member member comprises comprises a a toroidal shape, wherein a proximal surface of the toroidal shape and an inner surface of the toroidal shape, wherein a proximal surface of the toroidal shape and an inner surface of the

housingform housing formaasmooth smoothcontinuous continuous surface surface thatfunnels that funnelsfluid, fluid, under underpower powerofofpump, pump, through through

the housing. the housing.

11. 11. The The device device of claim of claim 10, 10, wherein wherein the housing the housing comprises comprises a metal a metal and a and a portion portion of of the the expandable member expandable member is is fixedtotoa asurface fixed surfaceofofthe the metal metalby byan anadhesive, adhesive,wherein whereinatatleast least aa portion of portion of the the surface surface of ofthe themetal metalisis impregnated impregnated with with aapolymer polymer to to promote bondingtotothe promote bonding the adhesive. adhesive.

12. 12. The The device device of claim of claim 10, 10, wherein wherein the expandable the expandable member member comprises comprises an inflatable an inflatable

balloon mounted balloon mountedonona aproximal proximal end end of of thehousing the housing of of thepump. the pump.

13. 13. The The device device of claim of claim 12, 12, wherein wherein the pump the pump comprises comprises an impeller an impeller disposed disposed within within the the housing, with housing, with the the inflatable inflatableballoon balloon mounted aroundproximal mounted around proximalend end ofof thehousing. the housing.

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57

14. The The device of claim 13, 13, wherein the housing comprises a distal portion and and a 03 Jun 2025 2020230048 03 Jun 2025

14. device of claim wherein the housing comprises a distal portion a

proximalportion, proximal portion, wherein whereinananexternal external diameter diameterofofproximal proximalportion portionisis smaller smaller than than an an external diameter external diameter of of thethe distal distal portion. portion.

15. 15. The The device device of claim of claim 14, 14, wherein wherein the impeller the impeller comprises comprises onemore one or or more bladesblades on a shaft, on a shaft,

whereinaa radial wherein radial measurement takenfrom measurement taken from an an axisofofthe axis theimpeller impellertotoan anouter outer edge edgeofof the the blades decreases from a distal to a proximal portion of the impeller. 2020230048

blades decreases from a distal to a proximal portion of the impeller.

16. 16. The The device device of claim of claim 15, 15, wherein wherein the outer the outer edgeedge of each of each blade blade includes includes a dogleg a dogleg

defining defining a astep-down step-down in radius in radius located located adjacent adjacent a transition a transition between between the distalthe distaland portion portion the and the proximalportion proximal portion of of the the impeller impeller housing. housing.

17. 17. The The device device of claim of claim 16, 16, wherein wherein the distal the distal portion portion of of thethe impeller impeller housing housing comprises comprises

one ormore one or more outlets outlets and, and, wherein wherein the impeller the impeller shaft flares shaft flares outwards outwards nearend near a distal a distal of theend of the

impeller impeller such that when such that the impeller when the impeller is is rotated, rotated,the theimpeller impellerpumps pumps blood blood through the through the

impeller housing and out of the one or more outlets. impeller housing and out of the one or more outlets.

18. 18. The The device device of claim of claim 10, 10, wherein wherein the pump the pump comprises comprises an impeller an impeller disposed disposed within within the the housingand housing andthe the expandable expandablemember member comprises comprises an inflatable an inflatable balloon balloon connected connected to exterior to an an exterior surface ataaproximal surface at proximalendend of the of the impeller impeller housing. housing.

19. 19. The The device device of claim of claim 18, 18, wherein wherein when when the inflatable the inflatable balloon balloon is inflated, is inflated, it itdefines definesa a torus. torus.

20. The The 20. device device of claim of claim 1, wherein 1, wherein the exterior the exterior surface surface of the of the impeller impeller housing housing is is prepared such that the exterior surface of the impeller housing includes at least one of a prepared such that the exterior surface of the impeller housing includes at least one of a

primedsurface, primed surface, aa chemically activated surface, chemically activated surface, aa plasma activated surface, plasma activated surface, aamechanically mechanically

abraded surface, abraded surface, a laser a laser ablated ablated surface, surface, an etched an etched surface, surface, or a surface, or a rough rough surface, a patterned a patterned

surface, surface, or or aahigh highenergy energy surface, surface,wherein wherein the the expandable member expandable member isisphysically physicallycoupled coupled directly to the exterior surface of the impeller housing via an interfacial layer, the interfacial directly to the exterior surface of the impeller housing via an interfacial layer, the interfacial

layer configured to interpenetrate the prepared exterior surface of the impeller housing. layer configured to interpenetrate the prepared exterior surface of the impeller housing.

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