Cutting-Edge Technology for World-Class Neurosurgical Care

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH)—also known as brain bleeds—are the deadliest form of stroke. While fatal in 35-50% of cases, they have traditionally been treated the same way for decades. 

For more than 50 years, external ventricular drains (EVDs) have been the gold standard for draining excess fluid or blood from the brain. While relatively cheap and easy to use, EVDs are somewhat slow and prone to clogging—which limits their ability to support higher rates of lifesaving care.

For the first time in recent medical history, new technology has been developed to help accelerate draining when every second counts. While still relatively limited in availability across the U.S., New Jersey Brain and Spine at Hackensack Meridian Medical Center is proud to introduce the innovative IRRAflow, the world’s first irrigating intracranial drain that provides a therapeutic approach to staunch intracranial bleeding.

Pushing Boundaries to Provide Best-In-Class Patient Care

Always on the cutting-edge of neurosurgical technique and technology, New Jersey Brain and Spine is an early adopter of the IRRAflow tool, which was used for the first time at WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute in Spring 2022. Today, the IRRAflow is available at only select hospitals and health systems nationwide. 

The tool promises to revolutionize treatment for hemorrhagic stroke, which are notorious for the swift and extensive damage they cause. Indeed, ICH is a severe medical emergency that requires immediate attention. 

When a blood vessel ruptures in the brain, it immediately floods neighboring tissue, causing damage and often disrupting critical functionality—like talking, moving, or even breathing. Staunching the bleeding and draining the excess blood—and quickly—is critical. Those who survive often experience significant ongoing disability, including vasospasm, lasting neurological deficits and seizures. 

How Does IRRAflow Differentiate Clinically Versus a Traditional EVD?

Whereas traditional EVDs are manual, clog-prone, and reliant upon gravity to drain excess blood, the IRRAflow is automatic, leverages active irrigation and suction, and integrates smart sensors for real-time feedback that prevents clots and ensures faster drainage with fewer complications. 

The IRRAflow is associated with a wide range of improvements, including decreased treatment times, shorter hospitalizations, fewer complications—and lower costs of care. Overall, studies show that 86% of IRRAflow patients achieved good outcome (mRS ≤ 3) at 90 days versus 37% of EVD patients. The IRRAflow is also associated with faster hematoma clearance, a reduced incidence of vasospasm—both symptomatic and radiographic—when compared to 40-70% in literature, and a more than 50% reduction in clot volume in a preclinical model. 

“When we heard what the IRRAflow was capable of, we knew we needed to bring it to our practice,” said Dr. Joseph Carnevale, Neurosurgeon at NJBS. “We are always looking for breakthrough treatments and technologies that will make a world of difference to our patients. With IRRAflow, we’re seeing faster clot clearance, fewer complications, and a reduced time to recovery. When every second matters, this tool will help us save so many lives.” 

What is the Value of IRRAflow Treatment? 

As a highly subspecialized, patient-centric practice, minimally invasive and cutting-edge care is central to the practice’s founding philosophy. NJBS is renowned for its focus on niche, highly skilled, and specialized care that promotes accurate diagnoses, personalized treatments, and the best possible outcomes. By emphasizing compassionate care, the team treats every patient like a family member, ensuring every care plan prioritizes patient wishes and quality of life. 

“Our first case with the IRRAflow was an undeniable success,” continued Dr. Carnevale. “Our entire department reviewed the case and its imaging, which underscored what we knew immediately on the surgical floor: this new technology worked to quickly eliminate intraventricular hemorrhage, shorten ICU time, and avoid CSF diversion surgery. We’re delighted by these initial results—and we’re just getting started. This will help us extend lifesaving care to so many individuals across New Jersey and the surrounding metro areas.” 

To learn more about how New Jersey Brain and Spine can help you or a loved one navigate a neurological challenge—or seek a second opinion—schedule a consult here.