Advantages to Indigo mechanical thrombectomy for ALI: device and technique

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) is a common treatment for acute limb ischemia (ALI).
• CDT carries risks, including major complications like hemorrhagic stroke due to lytic infusion.
• Aspiration thrombectomy presents an alternative with a lower systemic bleeding risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the Indigo system for aspiration thrombectomy in ALI.
• To highlight the advantages of aspiration thrombectomy over CDT for ALI treatment.

Main Methods:

• The Indigo system utilizes a vacuum pump for active clot aspiration.
• Components include aspiration catheters (CAT 3, CAT 5), separators, and a vacuum pump (-29 mmHg).
• The system is designed for direct clot removal without lytic agents.

Main Results:

• Aspiration thrombectomy with Indigo avoids systemic lytic infusion, thus reducing bleeding complications.
• The procedure allows for immediate reestablishment of blood flow.
• The Indigo system effectively aspirates clots of various sizes and lengths.

Conclusions:

• Aspiration thrombectomy with the Indigo system is a promising, less invasive option for ALI.
• It is particularly advantageous when thrombolysis is contraindicated or has failed.
• This technique may emerge as a first-line endovascular treatment for ALI in the future.