Laser Breaks Up Brain Clots to Treat Strokes

A new way to treat strokes with a laser and a micro-catheter may be able to lessen damage to the brain and promote a faster recovery. The new therapy was developed by researchers at the Stroke Institute at the University of Pittsburgh (UPMC, PA, USA).

The new therapy is being investigated in a phase I study to test its safety and effectiveness in patients who are suffering a stroke caused by arterial clots in the brain. Called the Endovascular Photo Acoustic Recanalization (EPAR) Laser System, the system comprises a laser and a micro-catheter. The catheter is placed in a blood vessel and advanced to the clot. Pulsed laser light is used to create a mini shock wave that gently breaks up the clot, restoring blood flow. The treatment takes only a few minutes. The study may show that the time limit for effective treatment after stroke onset is longer, which would be a significant advancement in the fight against stroke.

"We are interested in proving that use of this device is safe and effective,” said Charles Jungreis, M.D., professor of radiology and neurologic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. "This could be an important step and a highly effective way to treat stroke.”




Related Links:
Univ. Pittsburgh