Breakthrough in Vascular Procedures: Revolutionary Catheter Technology Reduces Friction by Up to 60%

A team of researchers from Delft University of Technology has made a significant breakthrough in the development of catheters used to treat vascular diseases, such as heart disease and artery stenosis. Each year, over 200 million catheters are used worldwide, many of which can cause major complications due to friction between the catheter and vessel wall.

Led by Mostafa Atalla, the research team has designed a new innovative catheter technology that can change the friction from "grip" to completely slippery with the flick of a switch. The prototype features advanced friction control modules that modulate ultrasonic vibrations to overpressurize a thin fluid layer, allowing for precise control over the friction between the catheter and vessel wall.

The new technology enables medical professionals to switch between low friction for smooth navigation through blood vessels and high friction for optimal stability during procedures. Trials have shown that the prototype significantly reduces friction, averaging 60% on rigid surfaces and 11% on soft surfaces in a proof-of-concept study.

The researchers' findings were published in IEEE Transactions on Medical Robotics and Bionics and have been confirmed by experiments on animal aortic tissue. The potential applications of this technology are vast, with the aim of improving safety and efficiency in endovascular procedures such as bowel interventions.

According to the research team, the new variable friction catheter technology has far-reaching implications for medical treatment, offering a safer and more precise approach to vascular diseases. With continued investigation into its application, this breakthrough may revolutionize the field of cardiovascular medicine and improve patient outcomes worldwide.