Coil embolization through the Marathon microcatheter: Advantages and pitfalls

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Interventional Neuroradiology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Current microcatheters face limitations in accessing small, distal, and tortuous intracranial lesions.
• The Marathon microcatheter, designed for Onyx delivery, offers enhanced length and flexibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the Marathon microcatheter for platinum coil delivery in complex intracranial pathologies.
• To assess the compatibility of the Marathon microcatheter with specific platinum coils.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of nine patients treated with the Marathon microcatheter for arteriovenous fistula, arteriovenous malformation, intracranial aneurysm, and tumor.
• Laboratory compatibility testing of the Marathon microcatheter with Barricade coils (diameter < 0.012 in).

Main Results:

• The Marathon microcatheter was successfully used to deliver platinum coils in all nine patients.
• Successful treatment of arteriovenous fistula, arteriovenous malformation, intracranial aneurysm, and tumor was achieved.
• Laboratory testing confirmed compatibility with Barricade coils < 0.012 in diameter.

Conclusions:

• The Marathon microcatheter is a viable and effective tool for delivering platinum coils in complex intracranial neurovascular cases.
• This microcatheter expands treatment possibilities for previously inaccessible intracranial pathologies.
• The Marathon microcatheter demonstrates compatibility with specific platinum coils, broadening its application in neurointerventional procedures.