Microwave balloon angioplasty

Experimental studies have led to the conclusion that microwave balloon angioplasty (MBA) is effective in enhancing the primary result of angioplasty. The feasibility and efficacy of a microwave system to enhance the result of the primary angioplasty procedure were demonstrated for normal and atherosclerotic rabbit models. The result at four weeks was also enhanced by microwave energy. Clinical trials are planned to explore the clinical utility of this modality. The addition of microwave energy is effective in increasing the diameter of the vessel post angioplasty and in sealing dissections, and seems to be effective in aiding the resolution of thrombus. The role of microwave angioplasty in reducing the incidence of restenosis is a complex question. The current results, although encouraging are too preliminary to offer definitive answers. >