Coronary artery counterpulsation device and method

摘要

A device and method are shown for improving coronary blood circulation and cardiac contractile function, synchronizing coronary perfusion pressure with the patient's cardiac cycle, by alternately pressurizing and depressurizing an inflatable balloon located within the interior of the device. The device comprises a catheter having a distal end which is installed at the ostium of the coronary artery of a patient. The device is alternately pressurized during the relaxation phase of a patient's cardiac cycle and then depressurized during the contraction phase of the cardiac cycle to thereby modulate the coronary perfusion pressure and blood flow.