In vitro evaluation of a new rotational thrombectomy device: The Straub Rotarex catheter

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of a new rotational thrombectomy device, and the procedure-related risk of particle embolization. Methods: The experiments were performed in transparent silicone tubes. The conditions of flow were as close as possible to physiological parameters. D istal embolization was detected by a mesh of nylon filters. Results: The Straub Rotarex catheter was able to remove all clots. The mean number of migrating particles larger than 1000 mum was 0.17 (+/-0.38), the mean number of 400-1000 gm migrating particles was 1.08 (+/-1.04). The mea n intervention time was 67 (+/- 37) sec. The mean volume of collected liqui d was 96.6 (+/- 24.7) ml. Conclusion: The in vitro results suggest that the Straub Rotarex catheter i s able to remove large volumes of thrombus with a limited risk of embolizat ion. The main limitation of our model is the absence of adhesion of the clo t to the tube.