CATHETER WITH FLUSH VALVE AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

In part, the invention relates to a catheter suitable for flushing a vessel. The catheter can include separated lumens and components that improve image data collection. In one embodiment, the catheter includes a catheter wall; a distal portion defining a distal lumen (62), the distal lumen having a first end terminating at the distal end of the catheter and a second end (30) terminating at an exit port in the catheter wall; a proximal portion defining proximal lumen (42), the proximal lumen having a first end terminating at the proximal end of the catheter and a second end terminating at a vent port (34) in the catheter wall; and a valve (50,54) positioned adjacent the vent port, the valve permitting fluid to exit the proximal lumen, but preventing particulate matter from the environment from entering the proximal lumen. In one embodiment, the valve comprises a piston (50) and spring (54) located in the proximal lumen (42). In another embodiment, the valve is a filter located in the proximal lumen adjacent the vent port.