Patients preparing for an embolization procedure often hear their physician mention "nitinol" when describing the device being used, particularly for vascular plugs. Understanding the basics of nitinol embolization devices can help patients feel more informed about what is being placed in their body and why this particular material was chosen. This guide explains nitinol in accessible terms.
What Is Nitinol?
Nitinol is a metal alloy made primarily of nickel and titanium. The name itself is a combination of "nickel," "titanium," and "NOL" (for the Naval Ordnance Laboratory, where the material was first developed). Nitinol has been used in medical devices for decades because of a distinctive property: it can be bent, compressed, or reshaped, and then return to its original, pre-set shape once released or warmed to body temperature.
This behavior is known as shape memory, and it is combined with a related property called super-elasticity, which allows nitinol to flex and recover its shape repeatedly without becoming permanently deformed.
Why Is Nitinol Used in Vascular Plugs?
In devices like INVAMED's MultiBEAM vascular plug, nitinol's shape memory is what allows the device to be compressed to a very small size for delivery through a thin catheter, then expand back to its full, designed shape once it reaches the target vessel. This is what makes minimally invasive delivery possible—without a shape-memory material, achieving the same compact-to-expanded transformation would be far more difficult.
Key reasons nitinol is commonly selected for these devices include:
- Compressibility for delivery — allows the device to fit inside a thin catheter for minimally invasive access
- Reliable shape recovery — the device expands to a consistent, predictable shape once deployed
- Flexibility under body conditions — nitinol remains flexible at body temperature, helping the device conform to vessel walls
- Established biocompatibility — nitinol has a long history of use in cardiovascular and peripheral vascular implants
Is Nitinol Safe for Use in the Body?
Nitinol has been used in a wide variety of implantable medical devices, including stents, plugs, and orthopedic devices, for many years. As with any implanted material, individual patient factors can influence how the body responds, and any concerns about metal sensitivities or allergies should be discussed with the treating physician before the procedure. Physicians consider a patient's full medical history when determining whether a nitinol-based device is appropriate.
What Happens to the Device Over Time?
Devices made from nitinol, such as vascular plugs, are generally intended to remain in place permanently once deployed, functioning as a long-term part of the treated vessel. Patients should follow their physician's guidance regarding any follow-up imaging or monitoring recommended after the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is nitinol the same as pure titanium?
No. Nitinol is an alloy combining nickel and titanium, while pure titanium is a single element. They have different physical properties, though both are used in various medical implants.
Can someone with a nickel allergy receive a nitinol device?
Patients with a known nickel sensitivity should discuss this with their physician before any procedure involving a nitinol-based device, as individual evaluation is important.
Will a nitinol device show up on future imaging or airport screening?
Metal medical devices may be visible on certain imaging studies and could potentially be detected during security screening; patients are often given documentation about their implanted device to carry for reference. Discuss specifics with your care team.
Related INVAMED Resources
- Embolization Products — INVAMED's embolization device portfolio
- What Is a Vascular Plug? — how nitinol plugs function
- Contact INVAMED — request further information
Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. It is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Product indications, availability, and regulatory status vary by country. Always refer to the official Instructions for Use (IFU) and consult a licensed physician for guidance specific to your situation. INVAMED devices are intended for use by trained healthcare professionals.