ACS RX flow support catheter as a temporary stent for dissection or occlusion during balloon angioplasty: initial...

The ACS RX flow support catheter, which functions as a temporary stent, was placed successfully during four procedures in three patients who had suboptimal results following angioplasty. This investigational device allowed prolonged perfusion and supported the vessel wall when coronary blood flow was compromised, avoiding emergent coronary artery bypass graft surgery during two procedures. In the remaining procedures the device was used as a bridge to surgery. These early applications of the flow support catheter following failed balloon angioplasty suggest a rapid, effective alternative to the autoperfusion balloon when it fails or is contraindicated because of the lesion location.