Abstract

We present data concerning the use of tPA with our recently invented thrombus aspiration device as a means of extracting blood clots in in-vitro experiments. We also remove the blood clots using the aspiration device alone. Our esults are compared. Background There are approximately 130,000 strokes in the UK alone each year. More recent treatments have included use of thrombolytic agents such as alteplase, and mechanical clot removal devices. In our paper, we present results based on investigating using one such mechanical thrombectomy device (the GP mechanical thrombectomy device) with alteplase delivered locally through the device. Method Abattoir porcine blood clots are exposed to alteplase delivered through the GP device which is left in situ for a given time. The blood clot is then removed by applying vacuum suction through the device. We investigate the variation with clot removal pressures, times and volumes of fluid removed when alteplase of different concentrations are used. The results are compared to using a catheter without the GP device. Results The most effective clot removal was found when the GP device is used with alteplase, Less pressure was needed to remove the clot with the device compared to without the device (i.e. arterial catheter alone). The GP Mechanical Thrombectomy Device removes clot more efficiently than using the arterial catheter alone with or without concurrent use of alteplase. The results also showed that the smaller the diameter of the device the greater the pressure needed to remove the clot, and the larger the clot the larger the pressure and the extraction time. Conclusion Our experiments demonstrated overall that the use of alteplase with theGP clot removal device is highly effective in removing clots, and is worthy of further investigation.