Developing a smart catheter to improve blood clot removal in stroke treatment
Smart Aspiration Catheter Based on Fiber Optic Pressure Sensing for Mechanical Thrombectomy in Stroke
This study is testing a new smart catheter that helps doctors remove blood clots during stroke treatment by giving them real-time information about how the procedure is going, making it safer and more effective for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Worcester Polytechnic Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10514898 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the mechanical thrombectomy procedure used to treat acute ischemic strokes by developing a smart aspiration catheter equipped with fiber optic pressure sensors. These sensors will provide real-time feedback on the interaction between the catheter, blood clot, and artery, helping physicians make informed decisions during the procedure. The study aims to identify critical conditions such as gaps between the catheter and clot, catheter jams, artery collapses, and clot breakage, which can lead to complications and poor outcomes. By improving the safety and effectiveness of clot removal, this research seeks to reduce the risks associated with current thrombectomy methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing acute ischemic strokes caused by large vessel occlusion.
Not a fit: Patients with strokes not caused by large vessel occlusion or those who are not candidates for mechanical thrombectomy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for stroke patients, potentially improving recovery outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced sensing technologies in medical devices, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zheng, Yihao — Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Study coordinator: Zheng, Yihao
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.