Novel Techniques for Arterial Thrombectomy: Large Bore & Beyond

In this episode, interventional cardiologist Dr. S. Jay Mathews and our host Dr. Sabeen Dhand discuss various devices used in arterial thrombectomy, including large bore aspiration catheters, the preclose system, separators, and stentrievers.

Dr. Mathews clarifies the definition of “large bore” as a catheter that is 8 Fr or larger. He notes these devices face some resistance in the interventional community, due the belief that arteries may be size prohibitive. However, he notes that the pre-close systems make arterial closure very feasible. Large bore catheters are able to achieve higher aspiration force compared to smaller catheters. Dr. Mathews prefers to use the Lightning 7 or 12 systems from Penumbra because of their angled/atraumatic catheter tips and their flexibility in navigation.

In cases of highly organized thrombus, Dr. Mathews may use separators to break up the clot into smaller and more manageable parts. He also speaks about using filters to capture the clot, but always in conjunction with aspiration, to prevent distal embolization.

The doctors also discuss the role of thrombolysis. Although thrombolysis procedure time is shorter than that of thrombectomy, patients remain ischemic for longer, leading to more reperfusion symptoms. Before placing a lysis catheter, Dr. Mathews recommends re-establishing some flow and creating a channel for more effective delivery of tPA.

Finally, we talk about new research in thrombus morphology and how this will affect future innovation in ultrasonic energy and nano-magnetic particles.