Blood clotting is a very helpful physiological mechanism of our body. But sometimes there is abnormal formation of blood clots in the blood vessels. It can lead a whole array of different problems. These clots may get stuck in the tiny vessels of the heart and brain and other vital organs. It results in stroke, heart attack and decreased oxygen and nutrient supply to those organs.
Experienced Scientists from Harvard University are conducting a research to find out more non invasive ways to treat the blood clots. They are in the process of developing a new way to treat blood clots. It involves a highly effective drug device that was developed recently. It can quickly dissolve clots that completely obstruct blood vessels in the brain. It combines an injectable clot busting nano-therapeutic and an intra arterial device that restores blood flow to obstructed vessels. This could replace dragging the clot by mechanical thrombectomy procedure.
In mechanical thrombectomy procedures, the blood clot also known as thrombus is removed using a catheter. This catheter is passed through one of the arteries. The clot is hooked and then mechanically pulled out of the blood vessel. This may lead to breaking of the clot into multiple parts leading to blockages in tiny vessels.
Only animal studies have been conducted with this device, so far. These animal studies showed that drug- device combination works very efficiently. Scientists hope to further develop the drug-device before testing it in humans.
