The Air Force has developed improved devices for hemostatic management of patients with life-threatening blood loss from an arterial wound or surgery. Current aortic occlusion devices successfully stem aortic blood loss, but result in hypoxia below the occlusion device. These devices, by blocking blood flow and oxygen delivery, severely limit the amount of time that such resuscitative measures can be taken before other medical complications arise.

The EVAC catheter increases the amount of time a patient with severe blood loss has to reach definitive care.

An improved endovascular variable aortic control (EVAC) catheter enables resuscitative occlusion of arteries and control of blood flow during life-threatening hemorrhage. The major improvement is that it occludes blood flow but not entirely, with some control. Specifically, EVAC allows greater control in the level of aortic blood flow and pressure on either side of the occlusion barrier.

EVAC features either non-balloon or balloon-based occlusion capabilities in a multi-lumen catheter that includes an external regulation device to allow medical staff to regulate blood flow and pressure by affecting the aperture of the window in the main channel of the device. The EVAC allows up to 15% blood flow within the occluded vessel while maintaining internal blood pressure. External regulation of blood flow and pressure are possible through a device affecting aperture of internal lumen. Potential applications include occluding arteries and other vessels away from the heart.

For more information, contact Dan Swanson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; 406-994-7736.