AI Cure
January 31, 2024Article of the Month – February 2024
February 29, 2024PerClot: A Breakthrough in Surgical Hemostasis
PerClot: A Breakthrough in Surgical Hemostasis
Following FDA approval, PerClot Absorbable Hemostatic Powder (PerClot) has been introduced. Comprising absorbable granules of polysaccharide, this powder serves the purpose of halting bleeding and encouraging blood clotting in surgical scenarios. Its granules swiftly absorb water from the blood, thereby accelerating the natural clotting cascade.
The molecular structure of PerClot granules enables rapid water absorption, resulting in the formation of a cohesive gel. This gel acts as a physical barrier to halt bleeding and aids in the accumulation of platelets, red blood cells, and clotting proteins such as thrombin and fibrinogen, facilitating the formation of a natural clot.
Once the clot has formed, the body breaks down and absorbs the PerClot granules. Studies have shown that this absorption typically occurs within 96 hours, although the timeline can vary depending on the quantity and site of application.
It is essential to avoid injecting PerClot into arteries or veins, as this could lead to embolization that may result in severe injury or even death.
Advancing AFib Therapy: The Abbott TactiFlex Catheter's Clinical Success
The Abbott TactiFlex catheter has shown impressive clinical results in the TactiFlex AF IDE study, effectively creating rapid and safe lesions for treating atrial fibrillation (AFib), with a procedural success rate of over 99%. Notably, this catheter has been approved for use in Europe, Japan, Africa, and Australia and has recently gained FDA clearance.
The device is a flexible wire catheter with a metal electrode at its tip. This electrode can be heated and is designed to treat atrial fibrillation, a condition characterized by fast and irregular heartbeats and type I atrial flutter, another abnormal heart rhythm causing tachycardia. Specifically, the device is approved for individuals with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, where episodes last less than seven days and do not respond to medication.
Setting itself apart from other catheters on the market, the TactiFlex catheter uses a unique tip design with a laser-cut pattern that flexes when it comes into contact with the heart wall. This design directs fluid to the treated tissue, improving precision and allowing for more accurate catheter placement. As a result, it provides up to two times more stability in a beating heart, ensuring consistent and reliable delivery of therapy.