A novel embolization device in the interventional oncology space—the GPX embolic device (Fluidx Medical Technology)—has successfully been used in a patient to therapeutically devascularise a tumour for the first time.
“We are impressed with the GPX embolic,” comments Andrew Holden (Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand). “We delivered GPX through a long 150cm 2.4F (0.022inch inner diameter) microcatheter from the patient’s radial artery. GPX was easy to use, precise, and occluded the tumour well. We look forward to using GPX across a broad range of applications to improve patient care.”
The GPX embolic device is an innovative embolic designed to combine the benefits of other embolics like coils, particles, and liquids with simplified preparation, delivery, precision, and control leading to durable, long-term occlusions. The GPX technology is a low viscosity, aqueous-based solution in a syringe that solidifies into a durable embolic material upon delivery, without polymerisation or dimethyl-sulfoxide (DMSO) precipitation associated with other embolics.
According to a company press release, GPX is packaged ready-to-use in a syringe, requires less than one minute of tableside preparation by the clinician, and may be delivered through standard catheters or microcatheters.
“GPX is easy to prepare, deliver, and control,” says Ryan O’Hara (University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah USA). “GPX is responsive to the physician and layers well in the vessel during delivery, resulting in improved targeting and control. I see potential for this embolic in interventional oncology and other peripheral vascular and neurovascular uses.”
Therapeutic, super-selective embolization is a high-growth procedure used for minimally invasive, targeted treatment of internal bleeds, tumours, aneurysms, vascular malformations, uterine fibroids, varicose veins, and other uses. A variety of embolic devices (coils, particles, plugs, liquids) are used for these procedures, however many can have issues in terms of ease of use, and controlled, consistent delivery. Some embolics also require specialised catheters and solutions as well as complex and lengthy preparation processes.
“This is a significant milestone for the Company,” adds Libble Ginster, CEO of Fluidx Medical Technology. “GPX is an advanced embolic technology that overcomes the challenges associated with other embolic devices. GPX can be used effectively for distal penetration and occlusion of vessel networks, as well as proximal ‘one-and-done’ use of GPX in conjunction with coiling. We look forward to GPX’s use to help a variety of peripheral and neurovascular patients.”
The GPX embolic device is not available for sale in the USA, and is for investigational use only.
