Apparatus and methods for treating stroke and controlling cerebral flow characteristics

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for treatment of stroke are provided. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention disposes at least one catheter having a distal occlusive member in either the common carotid artery (CCA) or both the vertebral artery (VA) and the CCA on the hemisphere of the cerebral occlusion. Blood flow in the opposing carotid and/or vertebral arteries may be inhibited. Retrograde or antegrade flow may be provided through either catheter independently to effectively control cerebral flow characteristics. Under such controlled flow conditions, a thrombectomy device may be used to treat the occlusion, and any emboli generated are directed into the catheter(s).

1 - 25 . (canceled)  
   
   
       26 . Apparatus suitable for manipulating cerebral blood flow characteristics, the apparatus comprising: 
 a catheter configured for introduction into a first blood vessel, having proximal and distal ends, a lumen extending therebetween, and an occlusive element affixed to the distal end, the occlusive element having an opening that communicates with the lumen, the occlusive element having a contracted position suitable for transluminal insertion and an expanded position wherein the occlusive element occludes antegrade flow in a vessel; and    at least one flow control device adapted for introduction into a second blood vessel, having proximal and distal ends and a flow control element disposed at the distal end;    wherein when the occlusive element and flow control device are deployed in the first and second blood vessels, they control perfusion in a third blood vessel distal to the first and second blood vessels.    
   
   
       27 . The apparatus of  claim 26 , further comprising a thrombectomy wire configured to be advanced into the third blood vessel.  
   
   
       28 . The apparatus of  claim 26 , wherein the occlusive element comprises an inflatable balloon.  
   
   
       29 . The apparatus of  claim 28 , wherein the inflatable balloon forms a tapered entrance to the lumen when the inflatable balloon is inflated.  
   
   
       30 . The apparatus of  claim 26 , wherein the flow control element is an inflatable balloon.  
   
   
       31 . The apparatus of  claim 26 , wherein the third blood vessel is an MCA.  
   
   
       32 . The apparatus of  claim 27 , wherein the third blood vessel is an MCA.