Johnson & Johnson Expands Ischemic Stroke Catheter Portfolio

Johnson & Johnson has launched new catheter systems to improve ischemic stroke treatment and procedural performance globally. The company announced that its latest devices, the CEREGLIDE™ 42, CEREGLIDE™ 57 aspiration catheters, and the INNERGLIDE™ 7 delivery aid, are now available in the U.S. These additions complete the CEREGLIDE™ family. They aim to help physicians navigate complex vascular anatomy and remove clots effectively. In addition, the devices simplify procedural decisions and enhance outcomes for patients.

The CEREGLIDE™ 42 and CEREGLIDE™ 57 catheters feature variable stiffness designs. This supports flexible navigation in tortuous brain vessels while maintaining stable proximal control. The catheters integrate seamlessly with existing neurointerventional workflows. Furthermore, hydrophilic coatings reduce friction, and TruCourse™ Technology improves trackability toward distal targets. Radiopaque tip markers enhance fluoroscopic visibility. These features give clinicians tools to remove occlusive clots confidently during ischemic stroke procedures.

INNERGLIDE™ 7 acts as a delivery aid for large-bore catheters, including CEREGLIDE™ 71. It includes a hydrophilic-coated shaft, a soft distal tip, and compatibility with 0.024-inch guidewires. These features allow physicians greater control during technically demanding device navigation. Overall, the expanded catheter suite strengthens Johnson & Johnson’s commitment to improving ischemic stroke care. The devices specifically address access challenges in complex vascular anatomy.

Christian Cuzick, Worldwide President of Neurovascular at Johnson & Johnson MedTech, explained that these offerings address procedural challenges traditional catheters cannot overcome. He noted that improved devices simplify clinical decision-making and enhance consistency across procedures. By offering a complete catheter portfolio, the company helps physicians restore blood flow rapidly in patients suffering from acute ischemic stroke. Medical experts have emphasized that accessing distal occlusions is a major challenge during ischemic stroke interventions. Smaller and tortuous vessels make navigation difficult.

According to Dr. Ameer E. Hassan, a neurospecialist at Valley Baptist Medical Center, CEREGLIDE™ 42 and 57 catheters performed reliably during multiple passes. They provided strong proximal support and navigated complex anatomy successfully. Dr. Hassan also highlighted the value of delivery systems like INNERGLIDE™ 7, which allow smooth, controlled advancement of large-bore aspiration catheters.

While the CEREGLIDE™ 42, 57, and INNERGLIDE™ 7 are currently available in the U.S., Johnson & Johnson aims to expand global access. Previously, the company launched devices such as the CEREGLIDE™ 92 catheter system. This large-bore system supports flow reduction and distal access during thrombectomy. Such innovations demonstrate the company’s commitment to comprehensive ischemic stroke treatment solutions.

Ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot blocks brain circulation and account for most stroke cases globally. Prompt restoration of blood flow through mechanical thrombectomy reduces disability and improves survival. Despite medical advances, anatomical challenges can prevent effective access, underscoring the need for innovative catheter technologies.

The expanded CEREGLIDE™ family now includes sizes 42, 57, and 71. These options give clinicians tools to optimize aspiration performance and device compatibility during ischemic stroke procedures. Physicians must often balance flexibility with support, and the portfolio addresses these needs with advanced materials and engineering.

Additionally, Johnson & Johnson integrates insights from its Neuro Thromboembolic Initiative into product development. New technologies are informed by stroke science and validated in realistic testing environments. These efforts reflect the company’s broader mission to tackle complex health challenges, including cerebrovascular disease and heart failure. Advanced therapeutic solutions aim to improve care quality globally.

Looking ahead, clinical feedback and product innovation will shape future ischemic stroke technologies. By expanding catheter offerings and addressing practical procedural needs, Johnson & Johnson supports physicians in delivering faster, more effective treatment. Ultimately, these innovations aim to improve functional outcomes and quality of life for patients affected by ischemic stroke.