SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SELECTIVELY INDUCING VASOCONSTRICTION TO INCREASE THERAPEUTIC UPTAKE IN TISSUE

A microcatheter is provided with a vascular spasm-inducing probe at its distal end. The spasm-inducing probe can include an electrical current, radiofrequency energy, ultrasound, chemical, or thermal modulator. When the spasm-inducing probe is activated in a vessel, the vessel narrows about the element. This permits a therapeutic agent to be delivered through the infusion lumen and out of the orifice under high pressure, while the narrowing of the vessel operates as a pseudo-valve and prevents reflux of the therapeutic agent past the narrowing of the vessel.