Simulation of the GPTAD applied to the removal of blood clots that arise during Peripheral Vascular Disease

Abstract

A number of thrombectomy devices using a variety of methods have now been developed to facilitate clot removal. We present research involving one such experimental device recently developed in the UK, called a 'GP' thrombus-aspiration-device (GPTAD). This device has the potential to bring about the extraction of a thrombus. Although the device is at a relatively early stage of development, the results look encouraging. We present an analysis of modelling this device using modelling techniques. Such modelling appears to be highly effective in simulating the device under a variety of conditions with a view to assisting in the optimisation of the GPTAD. The aim of this simulation model is to obtain the minimum pressure necessary to extract the clot and to verify that, both the pressure and the time required to complete the clot extraction are reasonable for use in clinical situations, and are consistent with any experimentally obtained data.