Introduction
Terumo Neuro, a global leader in neurovascular innovation, has recently unveiled the SOFIA™ Flow 88 neurovascular aspiration catheter. This breakthrough is a vital step forward in mechanical thrombectomy treatment for stroke. Unveiled during the 17th Annual Congress of the European Society of Minimally Invasive Neurological Therapy (ESMINT) 2025, it showcases compelling real-world data on its efficiency and reliability compared to its predecessors.
Impressive Performance Metrics
The presentation detailed that in a comprehensive study involving 70 procedures across 16 EMEA hospitals and 31 physicians, an astonishing 83% of doctors reported that the SOFIA™ Flow 88 consistently reached its targeted location even in anatomically challenging cases. This is particularly significant given that 76% of these procedures occurred in ICA-T (Internal Carotid Artery Terminus) or higher complexity locations.
In addition, the feedback from 100% of participating clinicians indicated that the SOFIA™ Flow 88 was at least comparable, if not superior, to the SOFIA Plus 6F regarding navigation ease to the vessel's target location. Furthermore, 92% regarded the new device as equal to or better than alternative aspiration catheters, highlighting its advanced design features and user-friendly experience.
Advancements in Stroke Therapy
Carsten Schroeder, CEO of Terumo Neuro, emphasized that this catheter represents a significant advancement in mechanical thrombectomy, designed to maximize aspiration while minimizing flow disruption. This dual benefit enhances doctors' abilities to navigate through even the most complex anatomies with minimal trauma to the patient.
The successful launch of the SOFIA™ Flow 88 on June 2, 2025, marked its entry into the competitive EMEA market, widening Terumo Neuro’s portfolio focusing on stroke treatment. The catheter's design incorporates enhanced traceability, proximal stability, and blood vessel-friendly flexibility, optimizing medical control and providing seamless integration into various aspiration and combination strategies.
Supporting Infrastructure and Compatibility
The SOFIA™ Flow 88 is compatible with the previously established SOFIA™ Plus 6F catheter, integrating into Terumo's comprehensive solution for stroke management, which includes:
- - ERIC™ Retrieval Device: Designed for thrombus control, enhancing procedural versatility.
- - BOBBY™ Balloon Guide Catheter: Offers a reliable blood flow stopping system equipped with cutting-edge balloon technology.
- - WEDGE™ and HEADWAY™ Microcatheters: Assist in navigation for improved access.
- - TRAXCESS™ Guidewires: Soft-tipped wires perfect for challenging anatomies, reinforcing the overall efficacy of the procedure.
Conclusion
With its strategic focus on delivering innovations that redefine neurovascular treatment options, Terumo Neuro continues to make a significant impact on both medical practice and patient outcomes. Their advancements in technology are further reinforced by data from the SOFAST study in the U.S. and the SESAME European study, proving safety and effectiveness as a first-line approach in mechanical thrombectomy.
Established in 1997 as MicroVention and later acquired by Terumo Corporation in 2006, Terumo Neuro has scaled operations to successfully market over thirty products aimed at addressing conditions like brain aneurysms and ischemic strokes in over seventy countries. For ongoing developments and additional product details, visit
www.terumoneuro.com.
Terumo Corporation itself, a medical technology leader for over a century, is headquartered in Tokyo and operates globally to provide innovative medical solutions across various regions and sectors. The company's expansive range of offerings translates to enhanced patient care and outcomes.
Whether you're a medical professional looking for the latest in stroke treatment technology or an industry observer interested in groundbreaking innovations, the SOFIA™ Flow 88 is a landmark development worth noting in the evolution of neurovascular therapies.