Interventional Radiology Newsletter June 2025

  • Interventional Radiology Newsletter June 2025
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Interventional Radiology Newsletter

Summer Edition 2025

Welcome to the Aquilant Interventional Radiology Newsletter! Keep up-to-date with the latest technology and innovation across GI Intervention, Oncology and Vascular therapy. Explore insightful case reports from leading clinicians across the UK.

IOUK 2025 – 19th – 20th June 2025

We are excited to be supporting this year’s BSIR IOUK Annual Meeting in London. This meeting provides fantastic learning opportunities for anyone with an interest in interventional oncology, with sessions hosted by national and international speakers it has proven to be a highlight in the Interventional Radiology calendar.  

We will be demonstrating some of our products during the hands-on sessions including the Solero Microwave Ablation System from AngioDynamics. 

Please make sure you visit the Aquilant stand in the exhibition area! There will be the latest technology in the Interventional Radiology world including the new Leinzett portable video cholangioscope, Solero microwave ablation system, the comprehensive and diverse range of GI and HPB metal stents from TaeWoong as well as the ELRA biliary radiofrequency ablation system.  

For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

Treatment of a distal malignant oesophageal stricture using a Niti-S covered oesophageal stent

At Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust we use the Niti-S Oesophageal stent as part of our tool kit in treating oesophageal malignancy. This double layered covered stent and its anti-migration technology allows us to treat a range of oesophageal strictures confidently.

Image 1

Indications:
The Niti-S oesophageal Stent (Image 1) is intended for use in oesophageal strictures caused by intrinsic and/or extrinsic malignant tumours.

Key features: 

  • The stent has a fixed cell with braided construction offering high flexibility and optimal radial force.
  • Proximal and distal head ends (8mm larger than trunk) to minimize migration
  • Double-layered design: an inner polyurethane layer to prevent tumour ingrowth and an outer uncovered nitinol wire tube to allow the mesh of the stent to embed itself in the oesophageal wall.
  • 10 radiopaque markers in three locations –four proximal, two middle and four distal – allowing for accurate deployment and ensuring adequate lesion coverage.

Case presentation:

A 77-year-old gentleman presented with progressive dysphagia. This was on a background history of Barrett’s oesophagus and ischaemic heart disease. A contrast enhanced CT of the thorax, abdomen and pelvis revealed a 6 cm obstructing distal oesophageal mass lesion extending to the gastro-oesophageal junction (GOJ) with hepatic metastases (Image 2). A fine needle aspirate from oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) yielded a diagnosis of moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma with a provisional staging of T3N1M1.

He commenced palliative chemotherapy with a mixed response, but represented with progression of the primary lesion causing obstructive symptoms. A contrast swallow study revealed high grade stenosis of the distal oesophagus at the level of the known mass lesion (Image 3).

Procedure: 

The patient was referred to interventional radiology for oesophageal stenting. The case was performed under general anaesthetic with transoral cannulation of the stomach and placement of a guidewire in the duodenum.

A 5 french long sheath was inserted, through which a pullback oesophagogram was performed to identified the lesion and plan stent size, and placement (Image 4).

An 18 french 18 mm x 120 mm covered stent was loaded over the wire and advanced to the distal oesophagus where it was deployed without complication (Image 5).

Balloon dilatation was performed in the midportion of the stent, at the site of known malignant stenosis.

An oesophagogram performed thereafter demonstrated appropriate positioning and patency of the stent (Image 6).

Two months later a follow-up CT demonstrates that the stent remains widely patent and well positioned (Image 7). The features minimising stent migration; the double layer, along with the proximal and distal end heads of the stent, can be well seen on this CT.

Conclusion:
In this case of a distal malignant oesophageal stricture, we demonstrate the benefit of using a double layered stent to reduce the risk of stent migration.

Dr. Geoffrey Ronan – Senior Clinical Fellow in Interventional Radiology
Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London

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For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

Simple. Speedy. Scalable.

The Solero* Microwave Tissue Ablation (MTA) System and Accessories are indicated for the ablation of soft tissue. The Solero MTA System is unique because it is specially designed to complete up to a 5 cm ablation in 6 minutes at max power output using a single applicator*.

*Ex-vivo bovine liver – actual clinical result in perfused tissues may differ.

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For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

The Prestige and Prestige Plus Coil System

The Prestige and Prestige Plus Coil System is an innovative device to endovascularly obstruct or occlude blood flow in vascular abnormalities of the peripheral vessels providing reliable and instant detachment in less than 1 second.

“I had the pleasure of using the Balt Prestige detachable coils recently for a case involving a GI bleed. A middle-aged man presented with a GI bleed. Endoscopy showed bleeding also at the level of the second part of the duodenum. The patient had this cauterised and clipped. Unfortunately the patient continued to bleed. The patient was then referred for angioembolisation of the GDA artery. After gaining access via the right femoral artery and subsequently into the coeliac artery the GDA was selectively catherised using a micro catheter. Whilst angiography did not demonstrate an active contrast, we elected to undertake an empiric embolization of the GDA. 

For this, I elected to use the Balt Prestige coils. I have used other types of coils before, but the one feature I particularly like about the Balt Prestige coils is their flexibility and their ability to conform the shape of the vessel nicely. Even if the coil was oversized for the target vessel, the soft nature of the coils will enable the vessel to accommodate them. With some of the other detachable coils, the coil tends to push the micro catheter out of the target vessel which may require repositioning. Given this, I now routinely use the Balt Prestige coils when embolising through a micro catheter. Also, the ease in its preparation and use makes it my go to detachable coil. Other clinical situations where I use the Balt Prestige coils have been for varicocele embolisation and splenic artery embolisation.”

Dr Vamsi Rachapalli, Consultant Interventional Radiologist, Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

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For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

Introducing the Optimed Sinus XL family

The ONLY bare metal stents indicated for use in both the aorta and the vena cava.

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For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

More than just another Atherectomy system

The Auryon Atherectomy system is a 355nm Laser that has the capability to break through calcium, aspirate clot and deliver lithotripsy effects (as demonstrated in the Micro CT study) to address medial arterial calcification. In addition, the 2.0 and 2.35mm fibres are indicated for in stent restenosis. It’s clear that Auryon is not just another atherectomy device but more of a vessel preparation system that is tailored to assist our doctors in treating some of their more complex patients.

Indications: 
Auryon is indicated to treat Peripheral Arterial Disease below the level of the inguinal ligament and In Stent Restenosis* (ISR).

Key Benefits: 

  • Clear all lesion types, including ISR*, with one single device.
  • Revolutionize how you treat, above and below the knee.
  • Practice with confidence by minimising the risk of embolisation.

*Only the 2.0 & 2.35mm catheters are indicated for ISR.

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For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

Ablation Study Day 2025

3rd December 2025, London

New for this year – Scientific Sessions.

Get your abstracts ready!

Register your interest

For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

New opportunities in cholangioscopy

Latest technology in video cholangioscopy is now available in the UK.

The Leinzett cholangioscope offers:

• High quality image – 160,000 pixels
• LED light source
• 6F, 4.8F and 3.6F working channels available
• 4 way and 2 way angulation
• No capital commitment required
• Portable

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For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

Exceptional learning opportunities at the Liquid Embolic Peripheral Embolisation Workshop

The Liquid Embolic Peripheral Embolisation Workshop, held at the François-Mitterrand University Hospital in Dijon, offers a unique and invaluable opportunity for consultants looking to deepen their expertise and build confidence in the use of liquid embolic agents. This highly regarded, interactive workshop is designed to be concise yet comprehensive. It is conducted in an intimate setting and begins with a focused theoretical session led by Professor Romaric Loffroy, a recognised expert in the field. Consultants gain an in-depth understanding of glue and EVOH as Prof. Loffroy shares his extensive experience, practical insights and answers to all clinical questions.

Following this, physicians observe live cases and gain hands-on experience with Prof. Loffroy and his team as he shares tips and his knowledge on the concept of liquids. The April workshop demonstrated procedures such as varicocele embolisation, prostatic artery embolisation, and pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS). These cases were performed using products such as Magic glue, SquidPeri and Prestige detachable coils tailored to each clinical need. This sought-after workshop combines theoretical knowledge with practical exposure, empowering consultants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to effectively utilise liquid embolics.

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“My colleague, Dr Eyas Qasem, and I recently had the privilege of attending the Liquid Embolic Workshop in Dijon. The event was a fantastic experience. The Dijon team exhibited profound expertise in the application of embolic agents and shared invaluable clinical insights, tips, and techniques. The workshop’s organisation was impeccable, and we extend our particular gratitude to Siham for her exceptional coordination and for ensuring seamless communication among all participants.”

Dr Yiannis Skarparis, Consultant Radiologist, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

“The workshop was exceptional featuring a wide range of cases with varying complexity. Professor Loffroy’s co-operation and informative instruction were invaluable, and he thoroughly addressed all participant inquiries. The hands-on component provided an unparalleled learning experience. The course significantly enhanced our understanding of liquid embolics, previously a source of concern; I have since incorporated this technique into my practice. Thank you for this valuable opportunity.”

Dr Sherif Kotkata, Consultant Radiologist, United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospital NHS Trust 

For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 

Upcoming events

CIRSE
13th – 17th September 2025 – Barcelona

Lower Limb Endovascular Symposium
9th – 10th October 2025 – Manchester

BSIR Annual Scientific Meeting
11th – 13th November 2025 – Liverpool

Ablation Study Day
3rd December 2025 – London

For more information, email Aquilant.newsletter@hc21.group or visit healthcare21.eu 


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Aquilant Vascular
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Aquilant Interventional Radiology
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