Thrombolytic Drug Delivery Device Dissolves Blood Clots

A redesigned peripheral infusion system enables focused treatment of blood clots to avoid potential post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS).

The updated Trellis peripheral infusion system is a pharmacomechanical thrombolysis device that provides a way for physicians to dissolve blood clots resulting from acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and before they advance to PTS. The system is comprised of an over-the-wire catheter with two occlusive balloons to close off the treatment area and block drug release to other areas of the body; an infusion zone to deliver the lytic drug; and an oscillation drive unit (ODU) with an integrated dispersion wire to distribute the drug.


The updated system features enhanced drug delivery, increased amplitude of the ODU, and a larger aspiration window than the previous version, which allows for better removal of the drug and the dissolved clot. The system is available in a 6 French catheter size for vessels 3–10 mm in diameter, and an 8 French version for vessels 5–16 mm in diameter. The Trellis peripheral infusion system is a product of Covidien (Dublin, Ireland), and can be used for both arterial and venous peripheral usage.

“Covidien is committed to providing clinicians and patients with advanced technology that is clinically relevant and demonstrates economic value. Our clinical data has demonstrated that the Trellis system’s targeted lytic delivery may reduce the risk of bleeding complications normally associated with systemic thrombolytic infusion,” said Mark Turco, MD, chief medical officer of vascular therapies at Covidien. “Furthermore, intervening in patients with DVT may help improve long-term outcomes in a population that can suffer significant complications if left untreated.”

PTS is a long-term effect of DVT (a condition where a clot develops in one of the body’s deep veins above the knee), and develops when a DVT interferes with the blood flow returning from the leg back to the heart. It can cause lower leg pain and swelling by causing damage to the valves in the veins that normally stop blood from flowing backwards down the leg. PTS occurs in almost half of patients within two years after DVT, and up to 33% of patients with PTS develop ulcers and skin deterioration.

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