Catheter system designed to treat blocked or damaged leg veins that have previously been stented and fail to return blood efficiently to the heart
An Irish hospital has become the first in the world to successfully trial a revolutionary new catheter device designed to treat complex venous obstruction.
The Recana Thrombectomy Catheter System is the first fully integrated mechanical thrombectomy device specifically engineered to treat in-stent restenosis, a condition in which veins narrow again after stenting.
The minimally invasive device is inserted through a small incision in the leg, allowing clinicians to access and clear previously obstructed veins. This restores healthy blood flow and offers new hope to patients who have exhausted all conventional treatment options.
Kelly Coughlin from Ballyshannon, Donegal, became the first patient in the world to receive the treatment after University Hospital Galway became the first facility to open a clinical trial of the device. The insertion of the catheter was led by consultant interventional radiologist Prof Gerry O’Sullivan.
“This procedure has been massively life changing for me,” Kelly said. “When I was symptomatic, even simple tasks like walking were a challenge.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Prof O’Sullivan and his team at University Hospital Galway. I’ve been under his care for many years, and that long-standing trust gave me the confidence and reassurance I needed to proceed with this treatment.”
According to Prof O’Sullivan, the new catheter system, developed by medical devices company InterVene, is a significant advancement in the treatment of chronic venous disease.
“The long-term impact of venous obstructions, especially in previously stented vessels, can be life-altering,” he said.
“I had attempted to recanalize this patient’s veins four times without success. The Recana system achieved this in a single session. That speaks volumes about its potential.”
Prof Fidelma Dunne, Director of the Institute for Clinical Trials at University of Galway, added: “It is incredibly rewarding to see cutting-edge medical device innovation introduced in Ireland through the Hypercare initiative at University of Galway’s Institute for Clinical Trials.
“Hypercare was developed to streamline and accelerate the start-up of clinical trials by working closely with our regulatory, ethical, and healthcare delivery partners. This milestone is a clear reflection of that mission in action.”
