Comparison of Aspiration Catheters with Modified Standard Catheters for Treatment of Large Pulmonary Embolism Using an In-vitro Patho-Physiological Model.

Purpose: The presented in-vitro study provides a comparison of various catheters for mechanical treatment of large-burden pulmonary embolism (PE) under standardized conditions, using a new test rig. Dedicated aspiration catheters (JETi®, Penumbra Indigo®, Aspirex®) were compared with standard catheters (Pigtail, Multi-Purpose, Balloon Catheter) applied for embolus fragmentation.

Materials And Methods: Emboli prepared from porcine blood were washed into the test rig which consists of anatomical models of the pulmonary artery (PA) and of the right heart in combination with a pulsatile drive system.