Comparison of Vacuum Pressures and Forces Generated by Different Catheters and Pumps for Aspiration Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke

This report assesses the pressures and forces generated by different catheters and pumps.Methods: Vacuum pressures were measured using a vacuum gauge for several catheters (Stryker Catalyst6, Penumbra Ace 064, Medtronic Arc 061, and Penumbra 041) and pumps (Penumbra pump, 60-mL syringe, and the ASPIRE device). Suction forces were calculated based on pressure and catheter tip size (force = area × pressure). Vacuum pressures and forces were also assessed with a coaxial microcatheter (Rebar 18; inner diameter = 0.021 inches), mimicking a combined aspiration and stent retriever approach.Results: All catheters transmitted similar vacuum pressures, but suction force was proportionate to catheter tip area. Pump vacuum pressures were also similar, although the Penumbra pump (mean -25.63 inches Hg [inHg]) was slightly weaker than the syringe and the ASPIRE device (-27.04 and -27.58 inHg, respectively;p
Source: Interventional Neurology - Category: Neurology Source Type: research