Mechanical devices for arterial occlusion

Abstract

Two mechanical devices for the purpose of occluding vessels are presented. Cotton tails, small metallic segments with attached cotton threads, will effectively occlude small arteries of approximately 2 mm. in diameter. Wool coils, 5 cm. segments of the outer portion of steel guidewires with attached wool strands, obstructed major vessels just beyond the tip of the catheter. The use of these devices has been investigated in dogs, and then applied clinically in the occlusion of renal arteries in patients with hypernephroma.