Systems and methods of de-endothelialization

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for treating a wall of an aneurysm formed in a vessel includes introducing a tubular member into the body lumen until a distal end of the tubular member is located within the aneurysm. A fluid is delivered via a lumen of the tubular member into the aneurysm to at least partially de-endothelialize the wall of the aneurysm, thereby causing an endothelium of the wall to generate fibrous tissue to strengthen the wall of the aneurysm.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION DATA[0001]The present application is a continuation of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 357,572, filed Feb. 3, 2003, the priority of which is claimed under 35 U.S.C. §120, and the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, as though set forth in full.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The field of the invention pertains to embolizing blood vessels or aneurysms, and more particularly, to systems and methods for reducing blood vessel or aneurysm recanalization.BACKGROUND[0003]In many clinical situations, blood vessels are occluded for a variety of purposes, such as to control bleeding, to prevent blood supply to tumors, to stop blood flow to arterio-venous malformations or fistulas, and to block blood flow within an aneurysm.[0004]Embolization of blood vessels is particularly useful in treating aneurysms. Aneurysms are abnormal blood-filled dilations of a blood vessel wall that may rupture causing significant bleeding. For the cases ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The solution effectively strengthens the aneurysm wall by generating fibrous tissue, reducing the risk of rupture and recurrence, and can be deployed using mechanical or thermal means for enhanced efficacy.

Problems solved by technology

Aneurysms are abnormal blood-filled dilations of a blood vessel wall that may rupture causing significant bleeding.

For the cases of intracranial aneurysms, the significant bleeding may lead to damage to surrounding brain tissue or death.

Intracranial aneurysms may be difficult to treat when they are formed in remote cerebral blood vessels, which are very difficult to access.

If left untreated, hemodynamic forces of normal pulsatile blood flow can rupture fragile tissue in the area of the aneurysm causing a stroke.

As a result of the slowed blood flow, the blood inside the aneurysm clots.

However, recanalization and recurrence of the aneurysm may still occur for various reasons.

This is more likely to occur if the aneurysm is loosely packed with vaso-occlusive devices.

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