A method for removing thrombus or other material from a natural or synthetic
body
vessel or cavity without the need for direct surgical access. The method includes
providing a device supplying high pressure fluid to at least one distal orifice,
causing high pressure fluid to emanate from the orifice creating at least one fluid
jet, and using the fluid jet to break up material in the vessel. The method further
includes directing at least one fluid jet at the opening of an exhaust lumen or
target incorporated into the device and using the jet to provide a localized negative
pressure which entrains material into the jet for break-up. The method optionally
includes using the jet to provide stagnation pressure which drives material along
the exhaust lumen. The method optionally includes metering the exhaust to match
the fluid input or to be greater or less than the input. A positive displacement
pump operating at steady or pulsatile flow provides the high pressure saline to
the distal end of the catheter.
