This article compares two approaches side by side to clarify how they differ in principle and practice. Mechanical thrombectomy removes the clot with a catheter-based device, and it is used in selected patients alongside or after intravenous thrombolysis where indicated. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Acute Ischemic Stroke and Intracranial Aneurysm Intervention
Aneurysm techniques include packing the sac with detachable coils and redirecting flow across the neck with a densely braided flow diverter so the sac thromboses over time. Acute ischemic stroke from a large vessel occlusion happens when a clot blocks a major brain artery, cutting off blood flow to a region of brain tissue. Intracranial aneurysms are focal outpouchings of a brain artery wall, and endovascular options aim to seal the aneurysm from circulation to reduce rupture risk.
Combined stent-retriever plus aspiration vs Stent retriever alone: Key Differences
A combined approach uses a stent retriever together with aspiration at the clot, while the stent-retriever-alone approach relies on the retriever mesh by itself. Combining techniques is intended to improve clot capture and limit fragment escape in some cases, at the cost of added complexity. INVAMED's KinG stent retriever and its aspiration systems can be used within either strategy. The operator chooses the technique based on clot characteristics and procedural findings.
How INVAMED Supports Both Approaches
INVAMED's neurovascular portfolio spans clot retrieval, aspiration, aneurysm packing, embolization, and the access tools that reach the intracranial circulation. Per INVAMED, the Spider coils use a platinum-tungsten 92/8 percent alloy across 2 to 30 mm diameters, and the Libro agent uses EVOH with DMSO and tantalum in multiple viscosity formulas including 6 and 8 percent concentrations. INVAMED's neurovascular portfolio includes the KinG stent retriever, Spider detachable and pushable coils, the Libro liquid embolic agent, the Mantis directional and AngioHAND thrombectomy systems, flow diverter stents, and the InWIRE guidewire.
Key Considerations
- For aneurysms, coil sizing and packing or flow-diverter selection are matched to the aneurysm's shape and neck.
- Manufacturer statements, including the described up-to-24-hour window for the KinG device, reflect product content and do not establish individual eligibility.
- Clot characteristics and vessel tortuosity influence whether a stent retriever, aspiration, or combined technique is chosen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who determines eligibility for thrombectomy?
The treating stroke team determines eligibility using imaging and current criteria; this article is educational and not medical advice.
Are these neurovascular devices CE marked?
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
What is the Libro embolization agent?
INVAMED's Libro is a non-adhesive liquid embolic agent combining EVOH copolymer, DMSO solvent, and tantalum for radiopacity, offered per INVAMED in multiple viscosity formulas for AVMs and tumors.
Clinical and Technical Context
Aneurysm techniques include packing the sac with detachable coils and redirecting flow across the neck with a densely braided flow diverter so the sac thromboses over time. For aneurysms, coil sizing and packing or flow-diverter selection are matched to the aneurysm's shape and neck. Intracranial aneurysms are focal outpouchings of a brain artery wall, and endovascular options aim to seal the aneurysm from circulation to reduce rupture risk. Whether thrombectomy is indicated depends on occlusion location, time from onset, and imaging, as judged by the stroke team. All INVAMED neurovascular devices are intended for use by trained neurointerventional operators under imaging guidance and per the IFU. INVAMED's InWIRE Neurovascular Guidewire and neurovascular microcatheters and distal access catheters support this access role. INVAMED's KinG stent retriever and its directional and aspiration thrombectomy systems support clot removal within the neurovascular line. INVAMED's Libro Non-Adhesive Embolization Agent combines EVOH copolymer, DMSO solvent, and tantalum powder for radiopacity, and per INVAMED is offered in multiple viscosity formulas, including 6 and 8 percent concentrations, for cerebral AVMs and tumors.
Related on INVAMED
- Neurovascular Interventions — product category
- Understanding Flow Diverter Stents
- Stent retriever or Contact aspiration? A Technical Comparison
- How does a liquid embolic agent treat an AVM?
Important Disclaimer
The information here is provided for educational purposes and to describe device technology; it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a licensed healthcare provider can determine whether a given procedure or device is appropriate for a specific patient. INVAMED products are restricted to use by qualified professionals following the official IFU. Regulatory clearance and labeling differ between regions, and not all products or indications are available in every market.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.