Development of a new catheter prototype for laser thrombolysis under guidance of optical coherence tomography (OCT): validation of feasibility and efficacy in a preclinical model

In this feasibility study, a novel catheter prototype for laser thrombolysis under the guidance of optical coherence tomography (OCT) was designed and evaluated in a preclinical model. Human arteries and veins were integrated into a physiological flow model and occluded with thrombi made from the Chandler Loop. There were four experimental groups: placebo, 20 mg alteplase, laser, 20 mg alteplase + laser. The extent of thrombolysis was analyzed by weighing, OCT imaging and relative thrombus size. In the alteplase group, thrombus size decreased to 0.250 ± 0.036 g (p < 0.0001) and 14.495 ± 0.526 mm2 (p < 0.0001) at 60 min. The relative thrombus size decreased to 73.6 ± 4.1% at 60 min (p < 0.0001). In the laser group, thrombus size decreased significantly to 0.145 ± 0.028 g (p < 0.0001) and 11.559 ± 1.034 mm2 (p < 0.0001). In the alteplase + laser group, thrombus size decreased significantly (0.051 ± 0.026 g; p < 0.0001; 9.622 ± 0.582 mm2; p < 0.0001; 47.4 ± 6.1%; p < 0.0001) in contrast to sole alteplase and laser application. The reproducibility and accuracy of the OCT imaging was high (SD <10%). Histological examination showed no relevant destruction of the vascular layers after laser ablation (arteries: 745.8 ± 5.5 μm; p = 0.69; veins: 448.3 ± 4.5 μm; p = 0.27). Thus, laser ablation and OCT imaging are feasible with the novel catheter and thrombolysis combining alteplase with laser irradiation appears highly efficient.

Subjects

Endovascular therapy

Laser

OCT

Thrombolysis

Thrombosis

DDC Class

600: Technik

610: Medizin

Options

Development of a new catheter prototype for laser thrombolysis under guidance of optical coherence tomography (OCT): validation of feasibility and efficacy in a preclinical model