Covidien is releasing in Europe its recently CE marked Pipeline Flex embolization device for treating unruptured brain aneurysms. Unlike embolizations using coils or embolic liquids, the Pipeline system was designed to divert the flow of blood away from the aneurysm without filling the bloated spaced with another substance. As time passes post implantation of the stent-like wire mesh, the diseased vessel heals and the aneurysm slowly shrinks.

The device can be repositioned to make sure it’s properly placed across the aneurysm and the instant braid release system is designed to make it simple to deploy the mesh. The first generation of the Pipeline device has been used in Europe and U.S. for a few years now, but the new Pipeline Flex with its new delivery system has not received FDA approval just yet. The Pipeline is the only system available in the U.S. for blood flow diversion around brain aneurysms.

Animation showing off the Pipeline embolization technology:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKA7elV-3u4

Source:Covidien