FDA clears Medtronic’s Riptide device for acute ischemic stroke

Medtronic’s Neurovascular business division has obtained clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its Riptide Aspiration System to treat acute ischemic stroke.

The Riptide Aspiration System includes the Arc Catheter, Riptide Aspiration Pump, Riptide Aspiration Tubing, and Riptide Collection Canister with intermediate tubing.

The system is intended to restore blood flow in blocked arteries of ischemic stroke patients by retrieving the clot through the Arc Catheter, which is inserted via an incision in the leg and up to the specific artery.

Riptide is used for the revascularisation of patients affected by acute ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial large vessel occlusive disease within eight hours of onset of the symptoms.

The system can be used to treat patients who are not eligible or fail therapy with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV tPA).

It expands Medtronic’s portfolio of revascularisation devices for acute ischemic stroke, including Solitaire with Parametric technology to restore blood flow and MindFrame Capture LP device to treat distal zone occlusions.

Medtronic Restorative Therapies Group Neurovascular business vice-president and general manager Stacey Pugh said: “Medtronic is committed to developing services and solutions that address healthcare needs by improving clinical and economic outcomes.

“We believe that the Riptide Aspiration System and Solitaire Revascularisation Device provide our customers with a comprehensive suite of products to choose from.”