Percutaneous balloon embolectomy with a self-expanding tulip sheath: in vivo experiments

Abstract

Purpose: To test a self-expanding tulip-shaped sheath designed for percutaneous embolectomy in an in vivo animal experiment.

Materials and methods: In nine sheep, a total of 23 percutaneous balloon embolectomies were performed with use of a self-expanding tulip sheath device with an outer diameter of 9- or 10-F when collapsed. A 10-F instrument was used in 11 cases, and a 9-F instrument was used in 12. Radiopaque emboli were pushed into the aorta via the left carotid or contralateral femoral artery with a 16-F introducer sheath.

Results: The embolus was captured in the tulip cage in all 23 cases. Retrieval of the embolus into the sheath was complete in 21 of 23 cases. In two cases, minor parts of the embolus dislodged from the sheath. Major embolism did not occur. In nine cases, the outer sheath had to be cleared of remaining clot particles with aspiration.

Conclusion: The noncovered self-expanding tulip sheath is an effective and safe instrument for percutaneous embolectomy under in vivo conditions.