Cyclic aspiration system producing a cyclic aspiration pressure waveform having a fluid replenishment system

A cyclic aspiration catheter comprising:

• a first tube having a proximal end and an open distal end;
• a second tube having a proximal and an open distal end;
• a pulsatile pressure and aspiration source being in fluid communication with the proximal end of the first catheter;
• a fluid reservoir being in fluid communication with proximal end of the second tube;
• and
• a first catheter having a proximal end and an open distal end.

A method of reducing a risk of air bubbles from entering the vasculature when operation a cyclic aspiration catheter to capture and remove an occlusion within the vessel, the method comprises an aspiration catheter having a proximal end and a distal end;

• a pulsatile pressure and aspiration source being in fluid communication with the proximal end of the catheter;
• a supply tube disposed within the aspiration catheter, the supply tube having a proximal end and an open distal end, the open distal end being in fluid communication with the aspiration catheter;
• and a fluid reservoir being in fluid communication with the supply tube such that a fluid from the reservoir can be drawn into the aspiration catheter, the method comprising:
• tracking the aspiration catheter to a site within the vasculature adjacent to an occlusion within the vasculature;
• applying an intermittent cyclic interval of vacuum pressure and positive pressure within the aspiration catheter to capture and remove the occlusion;
• delivering a liquid from the supply tube within the aspiration catheter during a vacuum pressure portion of the intermittent cyclic interval;
• and
• removing an air bubble from the aspiration catheter via the proximal end of the aspiration catheter during a vacuum pressure portion of the intermittent cyclic interval.