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. 2024:2:100053.
doi: 10.1016/j.jvsvi.2024.100053. Epub 2024 Jan 11.

Mechanical thrombectomy devices for the management of pulmonary embolism

Yash K Pandya  1   2 , Edith Tzeng  1   2   3
Affiliations

Mechanical thrombectomy devices for the management of pulmonary embolism

Yash K Pandya et al. JVS Vasc Insights. 2024.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to review the most commonly used percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy devices for the treatment of pulmonary embolism today.

Methods: A thorough search of the existing literature was conducted on commonly used percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy devices, most notably Inari Flowtriever, Penumbra's Indigo Aspiration, and Alphavac. Reported qualitative and quantitative information was abstracted and descriptively reviewed to ascertain the clinical utility and effectiveness of these devices.

Results: Inari Flowtriever is one of the most frequently utilized thrombectomy devices with the most substantive industry-sponsored trial data. Penumbra's Indigo Aspiration is one of the up-and-coming devices that presents certain caveats in addition to the commonly utilized features of a percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy device, making it a viable alternative. Other newer devices such as Alphavac still lack substantial data, with some other lesser-known devices sporadically used and showing limited, primarily anecdotal evidence.

Conclusions: Each device has its positives and negatives. Data are growing on the clinical utility of these devices as their use is becoming more common. However, the long-term durability and overall cost-effectiveness remains to be determined. (JVS-Vascular Insights 2024;2:100053.).

Keywords: Alphavac; Inari; Mechanical thrombectomy; Penumbra; Submassive pulmonary embolism.

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Conflict of interest statement

The editors and reviewers of this article have no relevant financial relationships to disclose per the Journal policy that requires reviewers to decline review of any manuscript for which they may have a conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig 1.
Fig 1.
Image submitted by Dr Glen Hoots from Tampa General Hospital in Tampa, Florida, using the Inari Flowtriever system, showcasing the clot burden removed and the syringe aspiration system, as well as the three nitinol mesh sticks at the end of the device for mechanical thrombectomy.
Fig 2.
Fig 2.
The Lightning Aspiration Catheter and Separator 12 (left). The Penumbra ENGINE and Lightning Aspiration Tubing (right).
Fig 3.
Fig 3.
AlphaVac by Angiodynamics, Inc, including all components.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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