Design and Evaluation of a Novel Thrombectomy Device

Abstract

Thromboembolic conditions are a leading global cause of mortality and a major cause of disability. Throughout the years mechanical thrombectomy has become a preferred method of treatment over thrombolysis. Mechanical thrombectomy devices utilize either aspiration or various methods of grasping to remove blood clots. Although a variety of MT devices are now in clinical use they all face some trade-offs depending on the removal method they use. This study proposes a novel thrombectomy device. The design implements a strategy of simultaneously gripping the clot and expanding the vessel lumen in order to reduce friction while advancing along the clot’s length in incremental steps. The prototype has been evaluated in a custom-made experimental setup using phantom vessels and thrombi analogs. The proof-of-concept experiments have shown that the device can successfully remove thrombi. The study shows promising results for this new kind of device and can be a foundation for future research into applying similar removal strategies in thrombectomy.