Ideas Developed from the Routine Use of Problem-solving Skills in Neuroendovascular Therapy

OBJECTIVE: All physicians should endeavor to perform safe and rapid neuroendovascular operations. We describe the process of identifying novel methods and highlight some representative clinical examples from our practice. METHODS: We made a habit of asking questions regarding problems encountered during operations. Potential solutions are often identified and noted in our smartphones or as memos. These solutions are then evaluated by experiments in vascular models before assessing their efficacy in clinical settings. RESULTS: Some ideas based on our process of raising problems and finding solutions were published, and found to be relevant to the wider scientific community. Moreover, all ideas were applicable in most settings due to the use of conventional, familiar, and cheap methods and equipment. The paper rail method, modified pigtail shape microguidewire, microcatheter in vivo printing method, microcatheter shaping cast, and wireless trans-cell approach are presented as representative ideas. CONCLUSIONS: We reported methods of neuroendovascular therapy identified through the routine practice of problem-solving by our team.