Yokneam, Israel-based Rapid Medical designed Tigertriever to remove thrombus from delicate brain blood vessels during an ischemic stroke. With National Medical Product Administration (NMPA) approval, it becomes the first device to offer patient-specific solutions for this treatment.
“This new approval for Tigertriever propels treatment for ischemic stroke patients in China,” said Ronen Eckhouse, co-founder and CEO at Rapid Medical. “We are fortunate to have an excellent partner with MicroPort Scientific Corporation, who understand the need to expand neurointerventional capabilities and individualized stroke care for these patients.”
Fueled by advancements in aerospace engineering, Tigertriever enables precise control during mechanical thrombectomy. Its unique operation changes the procedure from a passive to an active approach, accelerating clot capture. This also potentially reduces the risk of vascular injury during removal.
It differs from comparable, leading stent retrievers that are self-expanding and static. Rapid Medical says that approach can lead to suboptimal clot removal and minimal vessel protection. Published studies demonstrate Tigertriever’s superiority to conventional retrievers, the company said. Tigertriever received FDA clearance in July 2022.
“The successful launch of Tigertriever in China represents another stroke intervention innovation that can be applied in the real world, introducing the concept of tailored thrombectomy using an adjustable stent retriever that allows physicians to navigate procedures and unexpected circumstances with added control,” said Zhiyong Xie, President at MicroPort NeuroTech. “Tigertriever provides Chinese physicians with a new choice of neurological intervention medical devices that will benefit more patients.”
