Flow diversion for complex intracranial aneurysms in young children

Flow diverter stenting for intracranial aneurysms in the pediatric population: Two case reports and literature review

The Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) is a flow-diverting intraluminal device that is approved for use in adults 18 years or older with internal carotid artery aneurysms. However, it can also be used off-label in pediatric patients with aneurysms that cannot be resolved with traditional endovascular treatments. Herein, we present two cases of flow diversion in the pediatric population with complete obliteration of the aneurysm and excellent outcomes. Flow diversion has been shown to be a safe endovascular option in treating complex aneurysms in children. Larger-sized, multicenter trials are encouraged to compare outcomes between flow diversion and other aneurysm treatment options given the rarity of pediatric aneurysms.

Endovascular treatment of pediatric basilar artery aneurysms: case series and literature review

PURPOSE

Pediatric basilar artery aneurysms are rare and challenging to treat. Microsurgical options and standard endovascular coiling are often undesirable choices for treatment of this pathology. Additional endovascular strategies are needed.

METHODS

Presentation, diagnosis, and management of pediatric basilar aneurysms were reviewed, with an emphasis on endovascular treatment strategies. Our case series of 2 patients was presented in detail, one treated with flow diversion and vessel sacrifice and one treated with stent-assisted coiling. An extensive review of the literation was performed to find other examples of pediatric basilar artery aneurysms treated with endovascular techniques.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies met inclusion criteria. Fifty-nine aneurysms in 58 patients were treated using endovascular techniques. Mortality rate was 10.3% (6/58) and a poor outcome (GOS 1-3) occurred in 15.5% (9/58). There were 4 reported recurrences requiring retreatment; however, only 46.5% of patients had reported follow-up of at least 1 year. 71.1% (42/59) were dissecting aneurysms.

CONCLUSION

Basilar artery aneurysms in the pediatric population are rare, commonly giant and fusiform, and often not amenable to microsurgical or coiling techniques. The surrounding vasculature, location, size, and morphology of the aneurysm along with the durability of treatment must be considered in treatment decisions. With proper patient selection, stent-assisted coiling and flow diversion may increase the durability and safety of endovascular treatment in this population.

Intracranial aneurysms in pediatric population treated with flow diverters: A single-center experience

Background:

Pediatric intracranial aneurysms (PIAs) are uncommon. Flow diverters (FDs) have shown to be effective on treatment of selected aneurysms.

Methods:

We describe 10 cases of PIAs treated with FDs at one medical center in Mexico, from April 2015 to April 2020.

Results:

Out of 230 patients treated with FDs, 10 (4.3%) were pediatric. Average age was 9.4 years old (R: 6–15). Two patients (20%) had subarachnoid hemorrhage, 3 had epilepsy (30%), 3 (30%) had clinical signs of cranial nerve compression, and 4 (40%) had only headache. Two patients were in 1a grade of Hunt and Kosnik scale. Out of the nonruptured aneurysms, 7 (70%) were in 15 points of Glasgow Coma Scale and 1 patient (10%) was in 13 points. Treatment was performed without complications; nevertheless, appropriate distal deployment was not achieved in one case. At discharge, nine patients had 5 points of Glasgow Outcome Scale. All patients underwent computed tomography angiography or digital subtraction angiography at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, 2 patients (20%) had a 2-year follow-up, and 3 patients (30%) had a 3-year follow-up. According to Kamran grading scale, 9 patients (90%) were classified as Grade 4 and 1 patient (10%) as Grade 3.

Conclusion:

Even though it is a small series, as this is an uncommon disease, we may suggest that FDs are useful to treat properly selected PIAs. Our study has consecutive imaging assessment at least a year of follow-up in which aneurysm stable occlusion was observed in 90% of patients.

Initial experience with Pipeline embolization of intracranial pseudoaneurysms in pediatric patients

OBJECTIVE

Flow-diverting devices have been used successfully for the treatment of complex intracranial vascular injuries in adults, but the role of these devices in treating iatrogenic and traumatic intracranial vascular injuries in children remains unclear. The authors present their experience using the Pipeline embolization device (PED) for treating intracranial pseudoaneurysms in children.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective cohort study included pediatric patients with traumatic and iatrogenic injuries to the intracranial vasculature that were treated with the PED between 2015 and 2021. Demographic data, indications for treatment, the number and sizes of PEDs used, follow-up imaging, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Six patients with a median age of 12 years (range 7-16 years) underwent PED placement to treat intracranial pseudoaneurysms. There were 3 patients with hemorrhagic presentation, 2 with ischemia, and 1 in whom a growing pseudoaneurysm was found on angiography. Injured vessels included the anterior cerebral artery (n = 2), the supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA, n = 2), the cavernous ICA (n = 1), and the distal cervical ICA (n = 1). All 6 pseudoaneurysms were successfully treated with PED deployment. One patient required re-treatment with a second PED within a week because of concern for a growing pseudoaneurysm. One patient experienced parent vessel occlusion without neurological sequelae.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of the PED is feasible for the management of iatrogenic and traumatic pseudoaneurysms of the intracranial vasculature in children, even in the setting of hemorrhagic presentation.

A rare case of fusiform basilar trunk aneurysm

Aneurysms in the posterior circulation and distal sites are more common among the pediatric population than among adults, with a male predominance. Symptoms of an aneurysm in the posterior circulation can include a stiff neck or severe headache due to a ruptured aneurysm, whereas an unruptured aneurysm can cause mass effects or neurological deficits. However, in children, the complete occlusion of the aneurysm while preserving the flow of the main artery can be difficult to achieve when attempting a stent-assisted coil embolization technique. A 25-month-old girl presented with left hemiparesis and was diagnosed with a basilar artery aneurysm 10 months prior, but she did not receive any specific treatment. No history of trauma and no significant familial history were recorded. Angiography showed a fusiform aneurysm on the basilar artery trunk, which was successfully occluded using stent-assisted coiling following dual antiplatelet therapy with clopidogrel and aspirin. She was discharged with the complete restoration of motor deficits.

Successful treatment of ruptured multiple fusiform middle cerebral artery aneurysms with Silk Vista Baby flow diverter in a 10-month-old infant

We report the successful treatment of multiple ruptured fusiform middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms in a 10-month-old girl. This previously healthy infant presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage and was found to have multiple irregular dilatations of the superior division branch of the right MCA. Cerebral angiography was performed and confirmed the presence of multiple fusiform aneurysms of the MCA. After discussion with the multidisciplinary team, it was decided to treat the aneurysms with a endovascular approach, using a flow diverter. Microsurgical clipping was deemed risky because of the high likelihood of parent artery occlusion, and expectant management was also considered inappropriate because of the risk of rebleeding. Dual antiplatelet therapy was started, and a flow diverter was successfully delivered in the superior division branch of the right MCA. The postoperative course was uneventful, MRI at 12 months did not show any sign of recurrence, and at 3 years of age the patient had a normal neurological examination.

Epidemiology and outcomes of pediatric intracranial aneurysms: comparison with an adult population in a 30-year, prospective database

OBJECTIVE

Pediatric intracranial aneurysms are rare. Most large series in the last 15 years reported on an average of only 39 patients. The authors sought to report their institutional experience with pediatric intracranial aneurysms from 1991 to 2021 and to compare pediatric patient and aneurysm characteristics with those of a contemporaneous adult cohort.

METHODS

Pediatric (≤ 18 years of age) and adult patients with one or more intracranial aneurysms were identified in a prospective database. Standard epidemiological features and outcomes of each pediatric patient were retrospectively recorded. These results were compared with those of adult aneurysm patients managed at a single institution over the same time period.

RESULTS

From a total of 4500 patients with 5150 intracranial aneurysms admitted over 30 years, there were 47 children with 53 aneurysms and 4453 adults with 5097 aneurysms; 53.2% of children and 36.4% of adults presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Pediatric aneurysms were significantly more common in males, more likely giant (≥ 25 mm), and most frequently located in the middle cerebral artery. Overall, 85.1% of the pediatric patients had a modified Rankin Scale score ≤ 2 at the last follow-up (with a mean follow-up of 65.9 months), and the pediatric mortality rate was 10.6%; all 5 patients who died had an SAH. The recurrence rate of treated aneurysms was 6.7% (1/15) in the endovascular group but 0% (0/31) in the microsurgical group. No de novo aneurysms occurred in children (mean follow-up 5.5 years).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric intracranial aneurysms are significantly different from adult aneurysms in terms of sex, presentation, location, size, and outcomes. Future prospective studies will better characterize long-term aneurysm recurrence, rebleeds, and de novo aneurysm occurrences. The authors currently favor microsurgical over endovascular treatment for pediatric aneurysms.

Republished: Successful treatment of ruptured multiple fusiform middle cerebral artery aneurysms with silk vista baby flow diverter in a 10-months-old infant

We report the successful treatment of multiple ruptured fusiform middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms in a 10-month-old girl. This previously healthy infant presented with subarachnoid haemorrhage and was found to have multiple irregular dilatations of the superior division branch of the right MCA. Cerebral angiography was performed and confirmed the presence of multiple fusiform aneurysms of the MCA. After multidisciplinary team discussion, it was decided to treat the aneurysms with endovascular approach, using a flow-diverter. Microsurgical clipping was deemed risky because of the high likelihood of parent artery occlusion and expectant management was also considered inappropriate because of the risk of re-bleeding. Dual antiplatelet therapy was started, and a flow-diverter was successfully delivered in the superior division branch of the right MCA. The post-operative course was uneventful, MRI at 12 months did not show any sign of recurrence and at 3 years of age the patient had a normal neurological examination.

Analyzing the Safety and Efficacy of Flow-Diverting Stents in Pediatric Aneurysms: A Systematic Review

Ruptured intracranial aneurysms cause 50% of spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhages in children, resulting in up to 65% mortality when left untreated. Although flow-diverting stents are especially suited to treat the fusiform and giant aneurysms more commonly found in children, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only approved their use in patients ≥22 years of age. Our objective was to assess the safety of flow-diverting stents in the treatment of pediatric patients with aneurysms through a systematic literature review using the PRISMA criteria. We used PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science to identify all published cases of pediatric aneurysms treated or retreated using flow-diverting stents from 2007 through 2019. Two independent researchers developed a consensus regarding the inclusion of all articles. Patient data were extracted from the identified articles and used to calculate the incidence rate of complications. From 1396 journal articles identified, 24 articles contained data on 37 pediatric patients that met the inclusion criteria. Of these 37 patients, 8 (21.6%) had a complication by last follow-up (death: 2; residual aneurysm: 2; parent artery occlusion: 4). This resulted in an incidence rate of 0.018 complications per patient at-risk month (95% CI 0.008-0.035). These data suggest that the use of flow-diverting stents for treatment of aneurysms in children may be safe and that FDA approval for this use should be evaluated. Although this analysis is comprised of case reports and case series, it represents the best attempt thus far to quantify the risk of using flow-diverting stents in children.

Successful flow diversion treatment of ruptured infectious middle cerebral artery aneurysms with the use of Pipeline Flex with Shield technology

BACKGROUND

Rupture of infectious intracranial aneurysms (IIAs) is associated with a high likelihood of mortality. Endovascular treatment of IIAs via parent artery sacrifice offers good efficacy and outcomes; however, depending on the lesion's location, neurologic deficit may result.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We describe a pediatric patient with ruptured IIAs off the left middle cerebral artery (MCA) treated with coil embolization and endovascular flow diversion using the Pipeline Flex Embolization Device (PED) with Shield technology. We chose to place a flow diverter because 1) there was a second, more distal IIA not amenable to direct coil embolization, 2) there was significant potential for aneurysm regrowth and need for retreatment, and 3) we believed the diseased parent MCA needed to be reconstructed.

CONCLUSIONS

In the setting of previous hemicraniectomy, PED-Shield gave us the option to discontinue dual antiplatelet therapy should the patient require further neurosurgical intervention. Our case supports a role for PED-Shield to address ruptured pseudoaneurysms.

Pediatric Patient With a Giant Vertebrobasilar Dissecting Aneurysm Successfully Treated With Three Pipeline Embolization Devices

Pediatric intracranial dissecting aneurysms are rare (1), and treating this type of aneurysm in the vertebrobasilar circulation is more difficult. As an off-label application, pipeline embolization devices (PEDs) for posterior circulation dissecting aneurysms are reported to have good therapeutic effect (2). However, studies have found that PEDs for large or giant vertebrobasilar dissecting aneurysms have a poor effect and are associated with disastrous consequences for patients (3). PEDs are feasible for vertebrobasilar dissecting aneurysms (4); however, few reports discuss using PEDs to span the entire segment of the basilar artery. Because there are more perforating arteries in the basilar artery, it is more prudent to use PEDs in this artery. We report a case of a pediatric patient with a giant vertebrobasilar dissecting aneurysm successfully treated with three PEDs combined with right vertebral artery occlusion, without complications. The patient's headache symptoms resolved fully 3 months after the procedure, and the aneurysm was completely healed and excellent reconstruction of the left vertebral artery was seen 4 months post-procedure, using digital subtraction angiography.

Intracranial aneurysms in microcephalic primordial dwarfism: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Microcephalic primordial dwarfism (MPD) is a heterogeneous group of rare disorders. Recent studies have reported a significant percentage of patients with MPD suffering from a spectrum of cerebrovascular abnormalities, including intracranial aneurysms (IAs) and moyamoya syndrome. The neurological literature has not as yet specifically assessed IAs in this population. This systematic review aimed to assess the clinical behavior, characteristics, treatment modalities and outcomes of IAs in patients with MPD.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search in PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE and Ovid EMBASE for cases of MPD with IAs. We included three illustrative cases from our institution.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients with 71 aneurysms were included in this study. Twelve patients (50%) presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage. The majority of patients were aged ≤18 years (70.8%), with a mean age of 16.2 years at presentation. Median aneurysm size was 3 (IQR 1.8-6) mm, and the most frequent locations were the internal carotid (37.3%) and middle cerebral arteries (23.8%). Concomitant moyamoya disease was reported in nine (37.5%) patients. Median age of aneurysm detection in screened patients was significantly lower than in non-screened patients (P=0.02). Microsurgical clipping (55.3%) and endovascular coiling (26.3%) were the most used modalities. Twenty-two cases were managed conservatively. Overall, mortality occurred in 45.8% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Screening for cerebrovascular disease seems reasonable and effective to detect aneurysms at an earlier age in this population. Efforts in the literature to emphasize early and regular screening for these patients can positively impact outcomes in this population, however more evidence is needed.

Flow Diversion for Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms in Pediatric Patients: Multicenter Case Series

BACKGROUND

Though the Pipeline Embolization Device (Medtronic) is approved for use in adults 22 yr and older, the high efficacy and long-term durability of the device is attractive for treatment of intracranial aneurysms in younger patients who often have aneurysms less amenable to traditional endovascular treatments.

OBJECTIVE

To report technical, angiographic, and clinical outcomes in patients aged 21 or below undergoing flow-diversion treatment for intracranial aneurysms.

METHODS

Retrospective review across 16 institutions identified 39 patients aged 21 or below undergoing 46 treatment sessions with Pipeline Embolization Device placement between 2012 and 2018. A total of 50 intracranial aneurysms were treated. Details regarding patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, treatment considerations, clinical outcomes, and aneurysm occlusion were obtained and analyzed in a multicenter database.

RESULTS

A total of 70% of patients were male. Nonsaccular morphology was seen in half of identified aneurysms. Six aneurysms were giant, and five patients were treated acutely after ruptured presentation. Eight patients were younger than 10 yr of age. Complete aneurysm occlusion was seen in 74% of treated aneurysms. Three aneurysms (6%) were retreated. A total of 83% of patients had a modified Rankin Scale scores of ≤2 at last clinical follow-up. There were 2 early mortalities (4.3%) in the immediate postprocedure period because of rerupture of a treated ruptured aneurysm. No recanalization of a previously occluded aneurysm was observed.

CONCLUSION

Flow-diversion treatment is a safe and effective treatment for intracranial aneurysms in patients younger than 22 yr. Rates of complete aneurysm occlusion and adverse events are comparable for rates seen in older patients.

Application of the Pipeline Embolization Device for Giant Vertebrobasilar Dissecting Aneurysms in Pediatric Patients

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of the pipeline embolization device (PED) for the treatment of pediatric giant vertebrobasilar dissecting aneurysms (VBDAs).

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our institutional clinical database and identified 2,706 patients who presented with a diagnosis of intracranial aneurysms from January 2016 to June 2018. Among this group, 153 patients were diagnosed with VBDAs, and 54 of these patients underwent PED therapy. The PED technique was used in four patients who were 18 years old or younger at the time of presentation (two males, two females; mean age 9.25 years; age range 8–11 years).

Results: All four included pediatric patients were managed with the PED. One patient (25%) was treated with the PED alone, while three (75%) were treated with the PED and coils. One patient died from brainstem infarction or compression of the brainstem, while follow-up of the other three patients revealed favorable outcomes. The mass effect was reduced in cases 1, 2, and 3 on follow-up MRI performed 6 months after the PED procedure.

Conclusions: PEDs could be feasible in the treatment of pediatric giant VBDAs. However, the safety and efficacy of this method have not been clarified in this special pediatric population, and long-term follow-up is still necessary.

Endovascular Reconstruction of Intracranial Aneurysms with the Pipeline Embolization Device in Pediatric Patients: A Single-Center Series

Background

Pediatric intracranial aneurysms tend to differ in etiology, size, and location from their adult counterparts, and they are often less amenable to microsurgical clip reconstruction techniques. Endovascular treatment with detachable coils is an accepted treatment technique for pediatric patients, though high recurrence rates have been reported with coil embolization of large and giant aneurysms in this population. While the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) is FDA-approved for adult intracranial aneurysms, the use of PEDs in pediatric patients is considered off-label.

Case Descriptions

We present 3 cases of pediatric intracranial aneurysms in a 5-year-old male, a 12-year-old male, and a 12-year-old female who presented with symptoms including seizure, headache, and blurred vision. The 2 male patients were found to have intradural vertebral artery saccular aneurysms, while the female patient had a paraophthalmic right internal carotid complex aneurysm. After endovascular reconstruction of the aneurysms with PEDs, follow-up angiography showed complete occlusion of the previous aneurysms with no residual aneurysm filling in all 3 cases.

Conclusion

While further investigation is needed, the evidence presented here supports the conclusion that the PED can be an effective and viable treatment strategy in the pediatric population.

Endovascular Metal Devices for the Treatment of Cerebrovascular Diseases

Cerebrovascular disease involves various medical disorders that obstruct brain blood vessels or deteriorate cerebral circulation, resulting in ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Nowadays, platinum coils with or without biological modification have become routine embolization devices to reduce the risk of cerebral aneurysm bleeding. Additionally, many intracranial stents, flow diverters, and stent retrievers have been invented with uniquely designed structures. To accelerate the translation of these devices into clinical usage, an in-depth understanding of the mechanical and material performance of these metal-based devices is critical. However, considering the more distal location and tortuous anatomic characteristics of cerebral arteries, present devices still risk failing to arrive at target lesions. Consequently, more flexible endovascular devices and novel designs are under urgent demand to overcome the deficiencies of existing devices. Herein, the pros and cons of the current structural designs are discussed when these devices are applied to the treatment of diseases ranging broadly from hemorrhages to ischemic strokes, in order to encourage further development of such kind of devices and investigation of their use in the clinic. Moreover, novel biodegradable materials and drug elution techniques, and the design, safety, and efficacy of personalized devices for further clinical applications in cerebral vasculature are discussed.

Pipeline Embolization of an Infectious Basilar Artery Aneurysm in a 2-Year-Old Child: Case Report, Discussion of the Literature and Perioperative Considerations

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Flow diversion of intracranial aneurysms has been rarely described in the pediatric population. Here we discuss the technical and perioperative complexities inherent in the flow diversion of an infectious basilar apex aneurysm in a 2-yr-old child with significant medical comorbidities.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

Following judicious oral administration of dual anti-platelet agents and intra-arterial administration of calcium channel blockers to treat vasospasm, standard endovascular procedures were used to place a flow diverting stent across the neck of a rapidly enlarging infectious aneurysm of the basilar apex.

Following the uncomplicated procedure, the patient demonstrated progressive thrombosis of the previously noted basilar apex aneurysm over a 3-mo period. The patient was therefore felt to be safe to proceed with, and eventually underwent, uncomplicated orthotopic heart transplant.

CONCLUSION

Flow diversion of complex intracranial aneurysms in pediatric patients with significant medical comorbidities is feasible and safe; however, considerations have to be made in the pre- and perioperative care of these patients given the propensity for low-weight and complicated systemic disease processes.

Three-dimensional printing and neuroendovascular simulation for the treatment of a pediatric intracranial aneurysm: case report

The use of simulators has been described in a variety of fields as a training tool to gain technical skills through repeating and rehearsing procedures in a safe environment. In cerebrovascular surgery, simulation of skull base approaches has been used for decades. The use of simulation in neurointervention to acquire and enhance skills before treating a patient is a newer concept, but its utilization has been limited due to the lack of good models and deficient haptics. The advent of 3D printing technology and the development of new training models has changed this landscape. The prevalence of aneurysms in the pediatric population is much lower than in adults, and concepts and tools sometimes have to be adapted from one population to another. Neuroendovascular rehearsal is a valid strategy for the treatment of complex aneurysms, especially for the pediatric population. The authors present the case of an 8-year-old boy with a fusiform intracranial aneurysm and documented progressive growth, who was successfully treated after the authors rehearsed the placement of a flow diverter using a patient-specific 3D-printed replicator system model.

Pipeline-assisted coil embolization of a large middle cerebral artery pseudoaneurysm in a 9-month-old infant: experience from the youngest flow diversion case

Intracranial aneurysms in the pediatric population are rare entities. The authors recently treated a 9-month-old infant with a 19-mm recurrent, previously ruptured, and coil-embolized left middle cerebral artery (MCA) pseudoaneurysm, which was treated definitively with single-stage Pipeline-assisted coil embolization. The patient was 5 months old when she underwent resection of a left temporal Grade 1 desmoplastic infantile ganglioglioma at an outside institution, which was complicated by left MCA injury with a resultant 9-mm left M1 pseudoaneurysm. Within a month, the patient had two aneurysmal rupture events and underwent emergency craniectomy for decompression and evacuation of subdural hematoma. The pseudoaneurysm initially underwent coil embolization; however, follow-up MR angiography (MRA) revealed aneurysm recanalization with saccular enlargement to 19 mm. The patient underwent successful flow diversion-assisted coil embolization at 9 months of age. At 7 months after the procedure, follow-up MRA showed complete aneurysm occlusion without evidence of in-stent thrombosis or stenosis. Experience with flow diverters in the pediatric population is still in its early phases, with the youngest reported patient being 22 months old. In this paper the authors report the first case of such a technique in an infant, whom they believe to be the youngest patient to undergo cerebral flow diversion treatment.

Successful treatment of giant cavernous carotid artery aneurysm in a child using a flow diverter stent

Giant intracranial aneurysms are extremely rare in children. We present such a case, describe angiographic appearances and successful treatment using a flow diverter stent.

Pediatric intracranial aneurysms: changes from previous studies

PURPOSE

To develop a better understanding of pediatric intracranial aneurysms (PIAs).

METHODS

All PIAs treated in our center from January 2012 to April 2017 were retrospectively included. Clinical data, treatment summaries, and follow-up outcomes were retrieved and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 66 PIAs were found in 64 patients with a mean age of 11.4 ± 5.7 years, 68.8% of whom were male. The most common symptoms were seizure (n = 7, 63.6%) for the 0-5 age group and headache (n = 38, 71.7%) for the 6-18 age group. Fifty-one PIAs (77.3%) were located in the anterior circulation, with the middle cerebral artery (MCA) being the most common site (n = 28, 42.4%). Fifteen patients (23.4%) had PIAs that were pseudoaneurysms, and nine of them (60%) had a combined history of head trauma. Thirty-five patients (54.7%) had distal arterial aneurysms, and 21 of them (60%) presented with seizure. During a mean follow-up time of 1.6 ± 1.2 years, 79.7% of patients (n = 51) had favorable outcomes, 5 patients (7.8%) died, and the remaining 8 patients (12.5%) had unfavorable outcomes with severe neurological deficits.

CONCLUSION

Apart from characteristics consistent with previous studies, several new findings regarding PIAs were reported, including a difference in the most common symptoms in different age groups, the MCA as the predominant location of PIAs, the high ratio of pseudoaneurysms and their head trauma etiology, and the incidence of distal arterial aneurysms and their relationship with the risk of seizures.

Comparison of flow diversion with clipping and coiling for the treatment of paraclinoid aneurysms in 115 patients

OBJECTIVE

Paraclinoid aneurysms represent approximately 5% of intracranial aneurysms (Drake et al. [1968]). Visual impairment, which occurs in 16%-40% of patients, is among the most common presentations of these aneurysms (Day [1990], Lai and Morgan [2013], Sahlein et al. [2015], and Silva et al. [2017]). Flow-diverting stents, such as the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED), are increasingly used to treat these aneurysms, in part because of their theoretical reduction of mass effect (Fiorella et al. [2009]). Limited data on paraclinoid aneurysms treated with a PED exist, and few studies have compared outcomes of patients after PED placement with those of patients after clipping or coiling.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective analysis of 115 patients with an aneurysm of the cavernous to ophthalmic segments of the internal carotid artery treated with clipping, coiling, or PED deployment between January 2011 and March 2017. Postoperative complications were defined as new neurological deficit, aneurysm rupture, recanalization, or other any operative complication that required reintervention.

RESULTS

A total of 125 paraclinoid aneurysms in 115 patients were treated, including 70 with PED placement, 23 with coiling, and 32 with clipping. Eighteen (14%) aneurysms were ruptured. The mean aneurysm size was 8.2 mm, and the mean follow-up duration was 18.4 months. Most aneurysms were discovered incidentally, but visual impairment, which occurred in 21 (18%) patients, was the most common presenting symptom. Among these patients, 15 (71%) experienced improvement in their visual symptoms after treatment, including 14 (93%) of these 15 patients who were treated with PED deployment. Complete angiographic occlusion was achieved in 89% of the patients. Complications were seen in 17 (15%) patients, including 10 (16%) after PED placement, 2 (9%) after coiling, and 5 (17%) after clipping. Patients with incomplete aneurysm occlusion had a higher rate of procedural complications than those with complete occlusion (p = 0.02). The rate of postoperative visual improvement was significantly higher among patients treated with PED deployment than in those treated with coiling (p = 0.01). The significant predictors of procedural complications were incomplete occlusion (p = 0.03), hypertension, (p = 0.04), and diabetes (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large series in which patient outcomes after treatment of paraclinoid aneurysms were compared, the authors found a high rate of aneurysm occlusion and a comparable rate of procedural complications among patients treated with PED placement compared with the rates among those who underwent clipping or coiling. For patients who presented with visual symptoms, those treated with PED placement had the highest rate of visual improvement. The results of this study suggest that the PED is an effective and safe modality for treating paraclinoid aneurysms, especially for patients who present with visual symptoms.

Pediatric Intracranial Aneurysms: Considerations and Recommendations for Follow-Up Imaging

BACKGROUND

Pediatric intracranial aneurysms (IAs) are rare. Compared with adult IAs, they are more commonly giant, fusiform, or dissecting. Treatment often proves more complex, and recurrence rate and de novo aneurysmogenesis incidence are higher. A consensus regarding the most appropriate algorithm for following pediatric IAs is lacking.

METHODS

We sought to generate recommendations based on the reported experience in the literature with pediatric IAs through a thorough review of the PubMed database, discussion with experienced neurointerventionalists, and our own experience.

RESULTS

Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was utilized immediately post-operatively for microsurgically-clipped and endovascularly-treated IAs, at 6-12 months postoperatively for endovascularly-treated IAs, and in cases of aneurysmal recurrence or de novo aneurysmogenesis discovered by non-invasive imaging modalities. Computed tomographic angiography was the preferred imaging modality for long-term follow-up of microsurgically clipped IAs. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) was the preferred modality for following IAs that were untreated, endovascularly-treated, or microsurgically-treated in a manner other than clipping.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose incidental untreated IAs to be followed by magnetic resonance angiography without contrast enhancement. Follow-up modality and interval for treated pediatric IAs is determined by initial aneurysmal complexity, treatment modality, and degree of posttreatment obliteration. Recurrence or de novo aneurysmogenesis requiring treatment should be followed by digital subtraction angiography and appropriate retreatment. Computed tomography angiography is preferred for clipped IAs, whereas contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography is preferred for lesions treated endovascularly with coil embolization and lesions treated microsurgically in a manner other than clipping.

Resolution of giant basilar artery aneurysm compression and reversal of sensorineural hearing loss with use of a flow diverter: case report

The authors present an unusual case of a 15-year-old boy in whom sensorineural hearing loss and disequilibrium developed in the setting of a giant basilar artery aneurysm. This patient was treated with a flow-diverting stent and had complete resolution of his clinical symptoms including hearing loss. This case demonstrates the efficacy of flow diversion in select pediatric patients with posterior circulation aneurysms. The features that are thought to result in successful treatment are discussed.

Pipeline embolization device for the treatment of a traumatic intracranial aneurysm in a child

INTRODUCTION

Traumatic intracranial aneurysms in children are rare and may occur as the result of closed or penetrating head trauma. Their natural history seems to be more aggressive. Most traumatic aneurysms have complex shape, tending to have a large neck or even a fusiform morphology.

CASE REPORT

We present a case of a traumatic carotid artery aneurysm in a 9-year-old girl that was successfully treated with pipeline embolization device.

DISCUSSION

Due to its dissecting nature, wall friability and lack of a substantial neck can make surgical clipping and selective coiling difficult and risky. Although endovascular parent artery occlusion is the best approach in the acute phase, in some situations it is not possible or very risky. In such scenario the use of flow diverter devices would be an alternative approach. Additionally, we discuss the potential advantages and risks of flow diverter deployment inside a developing vessel.

Internal Maxillary Bypass for Complex Pediatric Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Complex pediatric aneurysms (PAs) are an unusual clinicopathologic entity. Data regarding the use of a bypass procedure to treat complex PAs are limited.

METHODS

Internal maxillary artery-to-middle cerebral artery bypass with radial artery graft was used to isolate PAs. Bypass patency and aneurysm stability were evaluated using intraoperative Doppler ultrasound, indocyanine green videoangiography, and postoperative angiography. Modified Rankin Scale was used to assess neurologic function.

RESULTS

Over a 5-year period, 7 pediatric patients (≤18 years old) were included in our analysis. Mean age of patients was 14.4 years (range, 12-18 years), and mean size of PAs was 23.6 mm (range, 9-37 mm). All cases manifested with complex characteristics. Proximal artery occlusion was performed in 3 cases, complete excision following aneurysmal distal internal maxillary artery bypass was performed in 2 cases, and combined proximal artery occlusion and aneurysm excision was performed in the 2 remaining cases. Mean intraoperative blood flow was 61.6 mL/minute (range, 40.0-90.8 mL/minute). Graft patency rate was 100% during postoperative recovery and at the last follow-up examination (mean, 20 months; range, 7-45 months). All patients had excellent outcomes except for 1 patient who died of multiple-organ failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Internal maxillary artery bypass is an essential technique for treatment of selected cases of complex PAs.

Optimal pediatric dosing of anti-platelet agents for pipeline stent embolization -a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Various strategies are emerging for dosing antiplatelet therapies in preparation for pipeline stent embolization in adults. Hyper-response is associated with hemorrhagic complications. Hypo-response is associated with thromboembolic events. Dosing of antiplatelet agents is highly variable, with little consensus among experts for adults-and even more so for children. To date, pipeline stents have been deployed in 11 pediatric patients, ages 4-15. A variety of clopidogrel and aspirin dosing regimens have been used, with response tested in only three patients, who were all therapeutic. Thrombotic events occurred in two patients, neither of whom were tested.

CASE

We describe here the first case of a hemorrhagic complication in a hyper-responsive pediatric patient undergoing placement of a pipeline stent.

DISCUSSION

As the use of endovascular therapies requiring dual anti-platelet agents becomes more established, there is an increasing need to develop titration protocols that minimizes the risk of thrombotic and hemorrhagic events.

Incidence and predictors of headache relief after endovascular treatment in patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms

Objective Patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms often present with headaches. We retrospectively determined the incidence of headache relief in patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms after endovascular treatment, with the main goals of preventing aneurysmal haemorrhage and identifying factors associated with headache relief in a cohort study. Methods From a cohort of patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms who were treated with endovascular coiling and admitted between January 2012 and December 2014, we included 123 patients who had headaches and underwent regular follow-up. The severity of headache was assessed by a quantitative 11-point headache scale for all patients before and after the endovascular treatment. Headache relief was defined as a decrease in the headache score. We determined the incidence and predictors of headache relief using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression analysis. Results Of the 123 patients with a mean follow-up of 14.1 months (range 1-39 months), 69 had headache relief. The overall cumulative incidence of headache relief was 62.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 54.2%, 69.4%). On multivariate Cox regression analysis, the side of headache ipsilateral to the aneurysm (adjusted hazard ratio 0.540; 95% CI 0.408, 0.715; P < 0.001) and aneurysm size (adjusted hazard ratio 1.753; 95% CI 1.074, 2.863; P = 0.025) were significant predictors of headache relief. Conclusions Endovascular treatment relieved preoperative headaches for most patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms. The side of headache ipsilateral to the aneurysm and aneurysm size >10 mm were significant predictors of headache relief.

Pipeline Embolization Device for Small Intracranial Aneurysms: Evaluation of Safety and Efficacy in a Multicenter Cohort

BACKGROUND: To date, the use of the flow-diverting Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) for small intracranial aneurysms (≤ 7 mm) has been reported only in single-center series.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the PED in a multicenter cohort.

METHODS: Five major academic institutions in the United States provided data on patient demographics, aneurysm features, and treatment characteristics of consecutive patients with aneurysms ≤ 7 mm treated with a PED between 2009 and 2015. Radiographic outcome was assessed with digital subtraction angiography. Clinical outcome was measured with the modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS: The cumulative number of aneurysms ≤ 7 mm treated with PED at the 5 institutions was 149 in 117 patients (age, 54 years [range, 29-87 years]; male to female, 1-5.9). Aneurysms were most commonly located in the paraophthalmic segment (67.1%) of the internal carotid artery. Radiographic outcome at last follow-up was available for 123 aneurysms (82.6%), with a complete occlusion rate of 87%. Thromboembolic and symptomatic procedural complications occurred in 8.7% and 6% of the aneurysms treated, respectively. There was 1 mortality (0.9%) unrelated to the PED procedure. Multivariable logistic regression identified size &lt; 4 mm, balloon angioplasty to open the device, and simultaneous treatment of multiple aneurysms as predictors of procedural complications. Good clinical outcome was achieved in 96% of electively treated patients.

CONCLUSION: In the largest series on PED for small aneurysms to date, data suggest that treatment with the flow-diverting PED is safe and efficacious, with complication rates comparable to those for traditional endovascular techniques.

Flow Diverters in the Treatment of Pediatric Cerebrovascular Diseases

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

There is very limited data concerning utilization of flow diverters in children. Our aim is to report results for the treatment of complex intracranial aneurysms and carotid cavernous fistulas by using flow diverters in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of children (17 years of age or younger) treated with flow diverters between May 2011 and July 2014 was performed. Clinical and laboratory data and angiographic findings were extracted. Seven patients (6 males, 1 female; mean age, 12.7 years; range, 3-16 years) were included. Two presented with posttraumatic fistulas. The remaining patients presented with traumatic aneurysms of the cavernous carotid artery or fusiform aneurysms of the distal vertebral artery, M1, or A2 segments. All patients were premedicated with clopidogrel (75 mg daily for patients with body weights of >45 kg, 37.5 mg daily for 1 small child with a body weight of <45 kg) and aspirin (300 mg daily for ≥45 kg, 100 mg daily for smaller children).

RESULTS

VerifyNow and Multiplate Analyzer values were higher than expected. No clinical complications were noted. Imaging performed at 7-52 months after the procedure (mean/median, 22.3/14 months) revealed occlusions of all aneurysms and fistulas. One patient had an asymptomatic occlusion of the parent artery; otherwise, no hemodynamically significant parent artery restenosis was observed. There were no clinically significant neurologic events during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Although flow-diverter placement appears to be safe and effective on midterm follow-up in children, longer follow-up is critical. The current sizes of flow diverter devices and delivery systems cover the pediatric size range, obviating developing flow diverters specific to children.

Rapid de novo aneurysm formation after clipping of a ruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysm in an infant with an MYH11 mutation

The authors report the case of a previously healthy 6-month-old girl who presented with right arm and leg stiffening consistent with seizure activity. An initial CT scan of the head demonstrated acute subarachnoid hemorrhage in the basal cisterns extending into the left sylvian fissure. Computed tomography angiography demonstrated a 7 × 6 × 5-mm saccular aneurysm of the inferior M₂ division of the left middle cerebral artery. The patient underwent left craniotomy and microsurgical clip ligation with wrapping of the aneurysm neck because the vessel appeared circumferentially dysplastic in the region of the aneurysm. Postoperative angiography demonstrated a small remnant, sluggish distal flow, but no significant cerebral vasospasm. Fifty-five days after the initial aneurysm rupture, the patient presented again with an acute intraparenchymal hemorrhage of the left anterior temporal lobe. Angiogram revealed a circumferentially dysplastic superior division of the M₂ branch, with a new 5 × 4-mm saccular aneurysm distinct from the first, with 2 smaller aneurysms distal to the new ruptured aneurysm. Endovascular parent vessel occlusion with Onyx was performed. Genetic testing revealed a mutation of the MYH11. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of rapid de novo aneurysm formation in an infant with an MYH11 mutation. The authors review the patient's clinical presentation and management and comprehensively review the literature on this topic.

Evolution of Management of Intracranial Aneurysms in Children: A Systematic Review of the Modern Literature

Pediatric intracranial aneurysms are rare. Management of their more common adult counterparts was profoundly influenced by recent high-quality clinical studies. The aim of this review was to aggregate the modern pediatric data published in the wake of these studies and to analyze their impact on management of aneurysms in children. A systematic PubMed search identified 135 publications published between 2000 and 2015, accounting for 573 children and 656 aneurysms. Descriptive statistical analyses revealed differences between children and adults concerning demographics and aneurysm characteristics. A significant proportion of patients were treated endovascularly, suggesting endovascular treatment has been established in the therapeutic armamentarium for pediatric aneurysms. However, these data highlight the unique nature of pediatric aneurysms, and neither this review nor generalization from adult data can replace high-quality clinical research. Multicenter registries and controlled trials are required to establish the natural history and evidence-based treatment of pediatric aneurysms.

Pipeline Embolization Device with or without Adjunctive Coil Embolization: Analysis of Complications from the IntrePED Registry

Flow diversion to treat cerebral aneurysms has revolutionized neurointerventional surgery. Because the addition of coils potentially increases the time and complexity of endovascular procedures, we sought to determine whether adjunctive coil use is associated with an increase in complications. Patients in the International Retrospective Study of Pipeline Embolization Device registry were divided into those treated with the Pipeline Embolization Device alone (n = 689 patients; n = 797 aneurysms; mean aneurysm size, 10.3 ± 7.6 mm) versus those treated with the Pipeline Embolization Device and concurrent coil embolization (n = 104 patients; n = 109 aneurysms; mean aneurysm size, 13.6 ± 7.8 mm). Patient demographics and aneurysm characteristics were examined. Rates of neurologic morbidity and mortality were compared between groups. The Pipeline Embolization Device with versus without coiling required a significantly longer procedure time (135.8 ± 63.9 versus 96.7 ± 46.2 min; P < .0001) and resulted in higher neurological morbidity (12.5% versus 7.8%; P = .13). These data suggest that either strategy represents an acceptable risk profile in the treatment of complex cerebral aneurysms and warrants further investigation.

Endovascular Therapeutic Occlusion of the Posterior Cerebral Artery: An Option for Ruptured Giant Aneurysm in a Child

The incidence of intracranial aneurysms in the pediatric population is low, and surgical clipping remains a good long-term treatment option. However, posterior circulation aneurysms are even more complex to manage in children than in adults. We report a case of a giant aneurysm of the posterior cerebral artery in a 10-year-old boy presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Endovascular treatment with platinum coils was performed with total occlusion of the aneurysm and the affected arterial segment without complications. The patient achieved good recovery, and a late control angiogram confirmed exclusion of the aneurysm. Occurrence of special features of cerebral aneurysm in children, in comparison to adults, is also described. Parent artery sacrifice is an effective therapeutic option, but long-term follow-up is necessary to avoid recurrence and rebleeding.

Republished: Successful treatment of a giant pediatric fusiform basilar trunk aneurysm with surpass flow diverter

Fusiform aneurysms present a unique challenge to traditional microsurgical and endovascular treatment because of the lack of a discernible neck and the involvement of parent vessel. Flow diversion has increasingly become the treatment of choice for fusiform aneurysms in the anterior circulation, but its results in the posterior circulation are variable. We report successful treatment of a giant fusiform upper basilar trunk aneurysm with the Surpass flow diverter in an adolescent, and discuss the potential advantages of this emerging technology in the treatment of fusiform posterior circulation aneurysms.

Successful treatment of a giant pediatric fusiform basilar trunk aneurysm with surpass flow diverter

Fusiform aneurysms present a unique challenge to traditional microsurgical and endovascular treatment because of the lack of a discernible neck and the involvement of parent vessel. Flow diversion has increasingly become the treatment of choice for fusiform aneurysms in the anterior circulation, but its results in the posterior circulation are variable. We report successful treatment of a giant fusiform upper basilar trunk aneurysm with the Surpass flow diverter in an adolescent, and discuss the potential advantages of this emerging technology in the treatment of fusiform posterior circulation aneurysms.