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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
Comprehensive Endovascular and Open Surgical Management of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations
Published on: October 20, 2017
Dumbbell-shaped thrombectomy device for cerebral venous sinus thrombus removal with controllable axial and
Ming Li1, Baoying Song2, Yan Wu1,2
1China-America Institute of Neuroscience and Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China.
Insights
A novel dumbbell-like stent effectively treats cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) in younger adults. This innovative device demonstrated significant thrombus removal and high recanalization rates in clinical studies.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neurosurgery
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) often affects younger adults with large thrombi.
- Existing artery stent retrievers are unsuitable for large, triangular venous sinuses like the superior sagittal sinus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and evaluate a novel stent retriever for treating CVST.
- To assess the mechanical properties and thrombectomy efficacy of the new device.
Main Methods:
- A 3D braided NiTi dumbbell-like stent was designed and fabricated.
- Computational modeling and in vitro studies evaluated mechanical properties.
- Swine models verified thrombus removal efficacy, followed by a 10-patient clinical study.
Main Results:
- The novel stent showed controlled length/diameter ratios and maneuverability.
- Significant reduction in thrombus volume (12,855.3 to 2373.1 mm³) was observed (P < 0.001).
- High recanalization rates and favorable clinical outcomes were achieved in patients.
Conclusions:
- The dumbbell-like stent is a promising new treatment for extensive CVST.
- This device offers a viable option for challenging venous thrombectomy procedures.
- Further research may validate its broader clinical application.
Abstract:
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is frequently observed in younger adults and features in large thrombus volume. Due to the triangular-like cross-sectional shape and large diameter of the superior sagittal sinus, all the commercially available artery stent retrievers are not suitable for venous vessels. In this study, a dumbbell-like stent was designed and fabricated by 3D braided technology using NiTi wires; it was manually rotatable and stretchable with controlled length/diameter ratios (2.6-14.0) and reciprocating maneuverability. Computational modeling and an in vitro study were conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties of this device and its ability to trap and remove thrombi from occluded venous vessels was verified by using a swine model. A single-center retrospective clinical study of 10 patients using the Venus-TD to treat patients with CVST was also conducted. Pre/postoperative thrombus volume in 10 patients was quantitatively analysed (12 855.3 ± 6417.1 vs. 2373.1 ± 2759.0 mm³, P < 0.001) with a high recanalization rate, yielding favorable clinical outcomes. This study offers a novel treatment option for patients with extensive CVST.
