Recorded at the ESMINT TV Studio 2026, this Terumo Neuro Industry Slot brings together Prof. Wim van Zwam, Prof. Markus Möhlenbruch and Dr Razvan Radu to explore the evolving role of the SOFIA Flow 88 large-bore aspiration catheter in mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischaemic stroke.
Prof. Möhlenbruch presents findings from the SUPERB SOFIA 88 Registry, a European multicentre real-world study evaluating the performance of SOFIA Flow 88 in patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy for internal carotid artery (ICA) and M1 occlusions. The discussion examines target access, first-pass efficacy, reperfusion outcomes and procedural safety, while considering where large-bore aspiration may offer advantages in cases involving substantial thrombus burden.
Building on the multicentre evidence, Dr Radu shares his growing real-world experience with SOFIA Flow 88, demonstrating practical case examples and providing technical insights into catheter navigation, anatomical considerations and aspiration strategies. He also discusses the learning curve associated with large-bore catheters and how procedural approaches can be adapted to maximise their potential.
Moderated by Prof. van Zwam, the session concludes with an expert discussion on patient and anatomy selection, ICA and M1 occlusions, first-pass effect, catheter support and navigation, posterior circulation use and the integration of large-bore aspiration into everyday thrombectomy practice.
The session provides a practical combination of multicentre evidence and real-world experience, highlighting how the SOFIA Flow 88 platform may contribute to the continuing evolution of aspiration strategies in mechanical thrombectomy.