Distal Occlusion Thrombectomy Technique

The distal occlusion balloon thrombectomy technique involves placement of an occlusion balloon immediately distal to the thrombus or embolus. The balloon overlaps the antegrade wire. With the balloon inflated, the thrombotic/embolic material is removed over the antegrade wire using the desired thrombectomy catheter or device. The inflated balloon prevents distal migration of the embolic material during removal. Intermittent digital subtraction angiography is performed to assess for residual debris. When sufficiently extracted, the balloon is deflated and removed. Most commonly, this is performed with the balloon inserted in a retrograde manner. However, if distal access is not feasible, the antegrade sheath can be upsized.