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Thrombus Visualization Using Low-Pressure Contrast Injection via a Small-Bore Aspiration Catheter in M2 Thrombectomy:
Takaaki Amamoto1, Koichiro Takemoto2, Yuta Oka1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Kawano Neurological Hospital, Oita, Oita, Japan.
Objective:
Accurate localization of thrombi in middle cerebral artery (M2) segment occlusions remains technically challenging but is essential for successful mechanical thrombectomy. We report a novel visualization technique that uses the aspiration catheter system itself to delineate the thrombus, thereby minimizing the risks associated with conventional microcatheter-based contrast injections.
Case Presentation:
An 81-year-old woman presented with acute ischemic stroke caused by an occlusion of the left M2 inferior trunk. Aspiration thrombectomy was performed using the described visualization technique. After positioning the aspiration catheter proximal to the thrombus, the inner microcatheter and guidewire were withdrawn, and contrast medium was gently injected at low pressure through the intermediate catheter. This approach produced a stagnant contrast column that clearly outlined the proximal surface of the clot as a meniscus sign, confirming direct catheter-thrombus contact. Complete reperfusion (thrombolysis in cerebral infarctions grade 3) was achieved after 2 aspiration passes, with no procedural complications observed.
Conclusion:
This novel technique offers a simple, safe, and effective method for direct thrombus visualization in M2 occlusions. By utilizing the intermediate catheter for controlled, low-pressure contrast injection, it may reduce the risk of distal embolization and simplifies the procedural workflow, potentially enhancing the rate of 1st-pass recanalization success. This technical note introduces the concept and provides preliminary evidence supporting further investigation and validation in larger patient cohorts.
Insights
A new technique visualizes brain clots in middle cerebral artery (M2) occlusions using the aspiration catheter itself. This safe method aids mechanical thrombectomy by clearly outlining the thrombus, improving reperfusion success.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Interventional Neuroradiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Accurate thrombus localization in M2 segment occlusions is crucial for successful mechanical thrombectomy.
- Conventional methods using microcatheter contrast injections carry risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a novel visualization technique for thrombus delineation in M2 occlusions.
- To minimize risks associated with traditional contrast injection methods.
Main Methods:
- Aspiration catheter system used for direct thrombus visualization.
- Low-pressure contrast injection through the intermediate catheter after microcatheter/guidewire withdrawal.
- Observation of a meniscus sign indicating catheter-thrombus contact.
Main Results:
- Successful visualization of the thrombus proximal surface as a meniscus sign.
- Complete reperfusion (TICI grade 3) achieved in 2 aspiration passes.
- No procedural complications observed during aspiration thrombectomy.
Conclusions:
- The novel technique provides a simple, safe, and effective method for direct thrombus visualization in M2 occlusions.
- Utilizing the intermediate catheter for controlled injection reduces distal embolization risk and simplifies workflow.
- Preliminary evidence suggests potential for enhanced first-pass recanalization success, warranting further investigation.
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