Optimization and Evaluation of an Arterial Thrombus Retrieval Device

The aim of this work was the optimization of an arterial clot retrieval device made of Ni-Ti in the shape of a helical spring. Wire was obtained from GAC International Inc., a company dedicated to the development of products vinculated to orthodontic and orthopedic, and then employed for its development. Finite Element (FE) simulation was used to compare the effects in the clot when different shapes of springs, cylindrical and conical, are used. Abaqus 6.9 was the software chosen to develop those simulations. The assessment of the device using an in vivo model was attempted; an experimental protocol was developed, using the abdominal aorta of the rat for effective in vivo testing of the endovascular catheter-delivered device. Taking into account the results obtained with the FE analysis it was concluded that the utilization of conical shaped springs is better than cilindrical due to the lower stress caused in the clot in this case, that avoids its rupture. The in vivo intervention was successful, the generation of the clot in the aorthic artery of a rat was achieved and so was the extraction of it.