ThruFlo Endovascular has announced the completion of seed funding led by Atlas MedInnovation to accelerate development of its novel bifurcated flow-diverter platform. Proceeds will be used to establish formal research and development (R&D) operations, complete device design, initiate additional preclinical studies, and submit an investigational device exemption (IDE) application to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as detailed in a press release from the company.
ThruFlo states in this release that approximately 60% of intracranial aneurysms occur at the branch points of major vessels, known as bifurcations—locations in which standard flow diverters “were never designed to work”. ThruFlo’s device seeks to address this gap with an anatomically specific, dual-limb, Y-shaped design that deploys as a single modality, eliminating the need for coiling, and reducing procedural complexity, time and risk.
“Today’s interventionists are using sidewall, off-label devices—such as stents with multiple detachable coils or intrasaccular devices—for treatment of bifurcation aneurysms, because there is simply nothing better available,” said Samuel Shaolian, chief executive officer (CEO) of ThruFlo. “Our device was designed from the ground up for this indication. Preclinical studies confirmed successful deployment and two-month device patency, and we are focused on building the evidence that translates into better outcomes for patients.”
ThruFlo claims to hold “a strong IP [intellectual property] portfolio anchored by multiple issued international patents”, as well as additional US and international pending patent applications. The company is supported by a scientific advisory board that includes leading neurological surgeons and interventional neuroradiologists from the University of Southern California (USC) and Keck School of Medicine in Los Angeles, USA.
“ThruFlo is addressing a significant unmet need in neurovascular intervention with an innovative technology platform, strong IP, and an experienced leadership team,” said Shuo Qi, director of PEEZNN and company—a business and financial consulting firm supporting ThruFlo. “Bifurcation aneurysms remain a challenging area for physicians, and ThruFlo’s purpose-built approach has the potential to improve treatment options for patients. We are excited to support the company as it advances toward key development, regulatory and commercialisation milestones.”
