The mechanism of action of cTIND for minimally invasive ischemic incision of the prostate: in vivo study.

Objectives To understand the histologic changes of prostate tissue induced by temporary implantable nitinol device (cTIND) in a canine model. Methods The cTIND is a small, symmetric device comprised of nitinol wire loops welded together on an axis, which exert radial force on the tissue to induce a targeted ischemic effect. The cTIND was implanted in three live canine models, which were monitored for 14 days post-index procedure. Device placement was monitored via serial fluoroscopy and biologic effects of cTIND were studied via histopathology. Results The cTIND was successfully placed in the canine models and remained securely in position until the animal was sacrificed on postoperative day 14. The cTIND treated tissue demonstrated an abrupt transition from normal, viable prostatic glandular tissue to an area of shrunken necrosis and fibrosis between the two. Conclusion In the canine models, the cTIND created focal areas of ischemic necrosis resulting in incisions in the peri-urethral prostate with minimal inflammation.