Multichannel catheter with obturator

A process for preparing a multichannel catheter, which process comprises:

• (A) extrusion molding a catheter having distal and proximal ends wherein the catheter comprises
• (1) a central, first channel extending substantially the length of the catheter and being defined by the wall of the catheter;
• (2) a second channel extending the entire length of the catheter, being integrated into the wall of the first channel;
• (3) a third channel extending substantially the length of the catheter parallel to the first and second channels but independent thereof and being integrated into the wall of the first channel and spaced from the second channel,
• (B) integrating an inflatable bladder into the distal end of the catheter so that the distal outlet of the third channel communicates with the interior of the bladder;
• and
• (C) slidingly inserting a flexible, elongated, shaft into the central first channel, a handle for positioning the shaft within the central channel.

A multichannel catheter useful for extracorporeal circulation of the blood to a patient undergoing cardiovascular surgery, which catheter comprises

• at least three independent channels and an expandable balloon at one end of the catheter;
• a first widest channel of a size to permit delivery of an amount of blood to the patient that is sufficient to support the patient metabolism and perfusion throughout the surgery, wherein the first channel has a series of outlet ports along at least a portion of the wall of the channel;
• a second channel, narrower than the first channel and integrated into the wall of the first channel, the second channel suitable at least for delivering cardioplegia solution to the heart or for venting the left heart;
• a third channel also narrower than the first channel and integrated into the wall of the first channel, said third channel suitable for delivery of fluid to the balloon for expansion when positioned in the ascending aorta to occlude the flow of blood, and
• a flexible shaft slidably inserted into the first channel of the catheter and having a handle located at the proximal end of the shaft for slidably positioning the shaft along the length of the first channel to block at least one outlet port.