Acute Ischemic Stroke is a worldwide phenomena seen in humans. It is potentially fatal and million of dollars worth of research has been directed towards it. The greatest breakthrough in recent time in the research has come from Ireland. The device in consideration is a revascularization device.
The working principle of the device is quite simple, yet brilliant. The device is designed with a dual-layer structure to retrieve and retain blood clots, while restoring blood flow to the brain. The device’s integrated distal protection zone is designed to reduce the risk of fragments of clot dislodging during retrieval, which could cause additional harm to the patient.
Data from a case series evaluating use of the device in 42 stroke patients at two European centers was revealed. In the series, treatment with the device restored significant blood flow in 86% of patients, with the majority of patients recovering to be able to function independently.
The device can be used to treat the majority of the stroke patients. It is the first choice for middle cerebral artery occlusions because it is highly deliverable, and we have found the device to be very effective in removing clots in just one to two passes. It is also quite flexible, which is important both for getting to the clot quickly and helps in being gentle on the cerebrovasculature during removal.
Clinical trial will begin enrolling patients this year at select centers in the United States and Europe. The trial will gather data to support the use of the device and to seek approval. In the United States, the EmboTrap revascularization device is not currently approved and is available for investigational use only.
