Endovascular Air Filter

Student team:

Master of Engineering: Steven Hinich, Conor Broeking, Ash McKesson
Undergraduate: Benji Chung, Justin Chen, Mustafa Valika

Description

Air embolism, a critical and potentially hazardous occurrence of air entering the vascular system, stands as a prominent concern in neuroendovascular procedures [1-3]. These vital medical interventions, indispensable for the diagnosis and treatment of a range of cerebral vascular conditions, inherently carry the risk of air introduction into the bloodstream. Such incidents of air embolism can precipitate severe complications, notably brain infarction or stroke, leading to irreversible neurological impairments like paralysis or coma, thereby significantly affecting patient outcomes.

Mechanism of Air Embolism Formation: The predominant cause of air embolism in endovascular procedures is attributed to the administration of contrast media. During this process, there exists a non-negligible risk of air inadvertently entering the bloodstream alongside the contrast media through the catheter. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including improper handling, equipment malfunctions, or inherent risks associated with the procedure itself [2-4]. Proceduralists, in their efforts to mitigate this risk, employ stringent preventive measures such as thorough visual inspections of syringes for air bubbles before the injection of contrast media.

Need for an Air Filter in Endovascular Procedures: The lack of a specialized air filter in endovascular procedures highlights a significant gap in maintaining optimal patient safety. Despite notable advancements in endovascular techniques and equipment, the risk of air embolism persists as a formidable concern. The existing preventive strategies, while generally effective, fall short of being completely reliable. The integration of a dedicated air filter could play a pivotal role in bridging this gap. It could substantially diminish the risk of air embolism, offering an added layer of protection beyond current practices. This advancement would not only bolster patient safety by mechanically filtering out air bubbles but also elevate the confidence of healthcare providers in the procedural safety. Additionally, by potentially curtailing the incidence of complications associated with air embolisms, such as strokes and long-term neurological deficits, an air filter could significantly reduce the long-term healthcare costs linked to managing these serious complications.