Columbus Community Hospital Implements INARI FlowTriever for Mechanical Thrombectomy in Rural Nebraska

Left to Right, Larysa Aristizabal, Kathy Sikora, Tamara Voland, Tanya Gateley, Thomas Jaixen

Columbus Community Hospital has taken another important step in advancing cardiovascular care in the region. The hospital’s cardiology clinic and cardiac catheterization lab have introduced the INARI FlowTriever system, a minimally invasive medical device that removes large blood clots — without the need for clot-dissolving medication.

The technology represents a significant improvement in the treatment of conditions such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, both of which are potentially life-threatening if not treated quickly and effectively.

“This is a big step forward for our team and, more importantly, for our patients,” said Thomas Jaixen, who serves as manager of the cardiac cath lab. “With the INARI system, we can physically remove the clot through a catheter-based approach. It’s effective and dramatically reduces the need for thrombolytics, which can carry significant bleeding risks.”

Traditionally, patients diagnosed with a large blood clot in their lungs or legs are treated with anticoagulants or medications that break down the clot over time. However, these medications can increase the risk of bleeding, and often require intensive monitoring or extended hospital stays. The INARI system offers an alternative that is safer for many patients — especially those who cannot tolerate clot-busting drugs.

The INARI FlowTriever system uses a specially designed catheter to capture and remove large clots from the venous system. It is the first and only Food and Drug Administration-cleared mechanical thrombectomy device specifically designed for pulmonary embolism treatment.

“This technology enables us to treat patients who are critically ill or in severe discomfort — without the complications often associated with systemic medications,” Jaixen said. “We’re hopeful that patients can begin to feel significantly better within just a few days of treatment.”

Beyond the expected improvements in patient outcomes, of the introduction of INARI may also lead to shorter hospital stays, fewer readmissions and faster recoveries — all of which are vital for delivering effective care in rural communities.

Columbus Community Hospital is committed to investing in leading-edge technology that ensures patients receive high-quality care, close to home. The arrival of the INARI device reflects that ongoing mission.

“This has the potential to be a powerful alternative for patients who can’t be on blood thinners,” said Nikunjkumar Patel, MD, a doctor at Columbus Cardiology Clinic. “It’s an emerging, minimally invasive approach to treating acute blood clots, and with the right training and equipment, we’re preparing to offer this care efficiently and safely.”

“Being able to perform this procedure right here in our cath lab — instead of sending patients to Omaha or Lincoln — is a major advantage,” Patel added. “When we are dealing with deep vein clots, time is critical. This technology allows us to stabilize patients quickly and effectively, right here at home.”