Stent-assisted coiling versus balloon remodeling of wide-neck aneurysms: comparison of angiographic outcomes

A simple and effective machine learning model for predicting the stability of intracranial aneurysms using CT angiography

Background

It is vital to accurately and promptly distinguish unstable from stable intracranial aneurysms (IAs) to facilitate treatment optimization and avoid unnecessary treatment. The aim of this study is to develop a simple and effective predictive model for the clinical evaluation of the stability of IAs.

Methods

In total, 1,053 patients with 1,239 IAs were randomly divided the dataset into training (70%) and internal validation (30%) datasets. One hundred and ninety seven patients with 229 IAs from another hospital were evaluated as an external validation dataset. The prediction models were developed using machine learning based on clinical information, manual parameters, and radiomic features. In addition, a simple model for predicting the stability of IAs was developed, and a nomogram was drawn for clinical use.

Results

Fourteen machine learning models exhibited excellent classification performance. Logistic regression Model E (clinical information, manual parameters, and radiomic shape features) had the highest AUC of 0.963 (95% CI 0.943-0.980). Compared to manual parameters, radiomic features did not significantly improve the identification of unstable IAs. In the external validation dataset, the simplified model demonstrated excellent performance (AUC = 0.950) using only five manual parameters.

Conclusion

Machine learning models have excellent potential in the classification of unstable IAs. The manual parameters from CTA images are sufficient for developing a simple and effective model for identifying unstable IAs.

Safety and effectiveness of the LVIS and LVIS Jr devices for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms: Final results of the LEPI multicenter cohort study

BACKGROUND

The Low profile visualized intraluminal support (LVIS)/LVIS Jr is a self-expanding braiding stent for the treatment of intracranial aneurysm. This study is to determine the safety and effectiveness of the LVIS/LVIS Jr for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms in a real-world setting.

METHODS

This prospective, observational, multicenter study enrolled patients with unruptured, ruptured and recanalized intracranial aneurysms treated with the LVIS stents, between February 2018 to December 2019. Primary endpoint was the cumulative morbidity and mortality rate (CMMR) assessed at 12 months follow-up (FU).

RESULTS

A total of 130 patients were included (62.3 % women, mean age 55.9 ± 11.4) on an intention-to-treat basis. Four patients (3.1 %) had 2 target aneurysms; 134 total aneurysms were treated. The aneurysms were mainly located on the middle cerebral artery (41/134; 30.6 %) and the anterior communicating artery (31/134; 23.1 %). The CMMR at 1 year linked to the procedure and/or device was 4.6 % (6/130). The overall mortality was 1.5 % (2/130), none of these deaths adjudged as being linked to the procedure and/or device. All aneurysms (134/134, 100 %) were successfully treated with LVIS stent and/or other devices. At a mean FU of 16.8 months post-procedure, complete/nearly complete occlusion was achieved in 112 aneurysms (92.6 %), and only 3 patients (2.5 %) required aneurysm retreatment.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence that the LVIS/LVIS Jr devices are safe and effective in the treatment of complex intracranial aneurysms, with very high rates of adequate occlusion at FU. These angiographic results are stable over time with an acceptable complication rate.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrial.gov under NCT03553771.

ARISE I Consensus Review on the Management of Intracranial Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) remain a challenging neurological diagnosis associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There is a plethora of microsurgical and endovascular techniques for the treatment of both ruptured and unruptured aneurysms. There is no definitive consensus as to the best treatment option for this cerebrovascular pathology. The Aneurysm, Arteriovenous Malformation, and Chronic Subdural Hematoma Roundtable Discussion With Industry and Stroke Experts discussed best practices and the most promising approaches to improve the management of brain aneurysms.

METHODS

A group of experts from academia, industry, and federal regulators convened to discuss updated clinical trials, scientific research on preclinical system models, management options, screening and monitoring, and promising novel device technologies, aiming to improve the outcomes of patients with IA.

RESULTS

Aneurysm, Arteriovenous Malformation, and Chronic Subdural Hematoma Roundtable Discussion With Industry and Stroke Experts suggested the incorporation of artificial intelligence to capture sequential aneurysm growth, identify predictors of rupture, and predict the risk of rupture to guide treatment options. The consensus strongly recommended nationwide systemic data collection of unruptured IA radiographic images for the analysis and development of machine learning algorithms for rupture risk. The consensus supported centers of excellence for preclinical multicenter trials in areas such as genetics, cellular composition, and radiogenomics. Optical coherence tomography and magnetic resonance imaging contrast-enhanced 3T vessel wall imaging are promising technologies; however, more data are needed to define their role in IA management. Ruptured aneurysms are best managed at large volume centers, which should include comprehensive patient management with expertise in microsurgery, endovascular surgery, neurology, and neurocritical care.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and preclinical studies and scientific research on IA should engage high-volume centers and be conducted in multicenter collaborative efforts. The future of IA diagnosis and monitoring could be enhanced by the incorporation of artificial intelligence and national radiographic and biologic registries. A collaborative effort between academic centers, government regulators, and the device industry is paramount for the adequate management of IA and the advancement of the field.

Review Article Imaging Evaluation for the Size of Saccular Intracranial Aneurysm

BACKGROUND

In addition to evaluate the morphologic characteristics of intracranial aneurysms, the dimension of the aneurysm is an important parameter for selecting treatment strategies, determining follow-up period, and predicting the risk of rupture. High-resolution vessel wall imaging has an increasingly dominant role in measuring aneurysm size and assessing the risk of rupture accurately. The size of saccular intracranial aneurysm may play an important role as a predictor of the rupture risk. With the rapid improvement in radiological techniques, different noninvasive imaging methods have respective characteristics in saccular intracranial aneurysms (sIA) measurement and morphologic description. Although most studies believe that the larger the aneurysm, the higher the risk of rupture, there is still a synergistic effect of multiple factors (such as location, morphology, history of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, and even patient factors) to explain the rupture of small aneurysms.

METHODS

A literature search was performed of intracranial aneurysm size and risk of rupture.

RESULTS

The specificity and sensitivity of different imaging methods for evaluating intracranial aneurysms varied based on sizes. Rupture risk of aneurysms was associated with multiple factors. A comprehensive assessment that considered aneurysm size in conjunction with other relevant factors would be helpful in guiding options of management.

CONCLUSIONS

Accurate measurement of the dimension of sIA is an important basis in the selection of appropriate treatment including intravascular intervention or surgical clipping, as well as for determining the follow-up cycles for conservative or postoperative treatment. A uniform definition of sIA size is recommended to facilitate the integration of similar studies and to accomplish rapid and effective screening of cases in sIA treatment.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Endovascular Therapy Effectiveness for Unruptured Saccular Intracranial Aneurysms

Background

Currently, endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms (ICAs) is limited by low complete occlusion rates. The advent of novel endovascular technology has expanded the applicability of endovascular therapy; however, the superiority of novel embolic devices over the traditional Guglielmi detachable coils (GDCs) is still debated. We performed a systematic review of literature that reported Raymond-Roy occlusion classification (RROC) rates of modern endovascular devices to determine their immediate and follow-up occlusion effectiveness for the treatment of unruptured saccular ICAs.

Methods

A search was conducted using electronic databases (PUBMED, Cochrane, ClinicalTrials.gov, Web of Science). We retrieved studies published between 2000-2022 reporting immediate and follow-up RROC rates of subjects treated with different endovascular ICA therapies. We extracted demographic information of the treated patients and their reported angiographic RROC rates.

Results

A total of 80 studies from 15 countries were included for data extraction. RROC rates determined from angiogram were obtained for 21,331 patients (72.5% females, pooled mean age: 58.2 (95% CI: 56.8-59.6), harboring 22,791 aneurysms. The most frequent aneurysm locations were the internal carotid artery (46.4%, 95% CI: 41.9%-50.9%), the anterior communicating artery (26.4%, 95% CI: 22.5%-30.8%), the middle cerebral artery (24.5%, 95% CI:19.2%-30.8%) and the basilar tip (14.4%, 95% CI:11.3%-18.3%). The complete occlusion probability (RROC-I) was analyzed for GDCs, the Woven EndoBridge (WEB), and flow diverters. The RROC-I rate was the highest in balloon-assisted coiling (73.9%, 95% CI: 65.0%-81.2%) and the lowest in the WEB (27.8%, 95% CI:13.2%-49.2%). The follow-up RROC-I probability was homogenous in all analyzed devices.

Conclusions

We observed that the coil-based endovascular therapy provides acceptable rates of complete occlusion, and these rates are improved in balloon-assisted coils. Out of the analyzed devices, the WEB exhibited the shortest time to achieve >90% probability of follow-up complete occlusion (~18 months). Overall, the GDCs remain the gold standard for endovascular treatment of unruptured saccular aneurysms.

Stent-assistant versus non-stent-assistant coiling for ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Background

Several different endovascular and non-invasive treatment methods are suggested for the various types of intracranial aneurysms including simple, balloon-assisted, and stent-assisted coiling (SAC). Previous studies investigated the safety and efficacy of SAC versus non-stent-assisted coiling (non-SAC) but the results were controversial. We aim to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of SAC with non-SAC technique in stratifying by the ruptured and unruptured aneurysms.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched in April 2022 for studies investigated the efficacy and safety of SAC versus non-SAC.

Results

Overall, 26 studies entered into our qualitative and quantitative synthesis. We found that there was overall lower recurrence rate in SAC versus non-SAC significant (RR: 0.43, 95%CI: 0.33, 0.53). Furthermore, the comparisons were significant in unruptured (RR: 0.63, 95%CI: 0.40, 0.86), ruptured (RR: 0.29, 95%CI), and combination aneurysms (RR: 0.42, 95%CI: 0.30, 0.54). Also, we found higher risk of intraprocedural rupture for SAC versus non-SAC in unruptured aneurysms (RR: 1.40, 95%CI: 1.31, 1.50). Investigating hemorrhagic events risk showed that there was significant difference in ruptured (RR: 1.73, 95%CI: 1.12, 2.34) and combination aneurysms (RR: 0.60, 95%CI: 0.37, 0.82). There was no significant difference in immediate occlusion rate, complete occlusion, and risk of ischemic events in our analysis.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings demonstrated that SAC may have higher efficacy in term of recurrence rate, but also may have a higher risk of complications in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. As there are several factors affecting the outcomes and safety of these interventions, further RCTs controlled for multiple factors are required better guide the neurointerventionists choose the best strategy.

Comaneci-assisted coiling of a right posterior communicating artery aneurysm: an unusual case of coil retention

Although endovascular embolization has become the main treatment option for intracranial aneurysms,1 2 wide-necked intracranial aneurysms remain difficult to coil.3 Both stent- and balloon-assisted coiling are used for wide-necked aneurysms because they provide a scaffold that protects the parent vessel during coiling.4 5 However, stent-assisted coiling requires dual antiplatelet therapy, which increases the risk of bleeding, whereas balloon-assisted coiling temporarily obstructs blood flow.4 6 7 The Comaneci device (Rapid Medical, Yokneam, Israel) has recently received US Food and Drug Administration approval as a 'temporary coil embolization assist device'.5 It temporarily covers the aneurysm neck and allows safe coiling, avoiding the disadvantages mentioned above.6-8 A potential complication of Comaneci-assisted coiling is coil retention when it adheres to the device on recapture; this complication should be promptly recognized and managed.5 9 10 In this video, we present an unusual case of coil retention with the Comaneci device (Video 1). neurintsurg;15/12/1286/V1F1V1Video 1 .

The Safety and Efficacy of eCLIPs for Treatment of Wide-Necked Bifurcation Aneurysms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms (WNBAs) are challenging intracranial aneurysms. Several device and treatment approaches have been proposed for the treatment of WNBAs. The endovascular clip system (eCLIPs) is a newly developed endovascular device with flow diverter and flow disruptor features. This study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of the eCLIPs for treatment of patients with WNBAs.

METHODS

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis study conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) guidelines. The electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically reviewed from inception to June 19, 2023. The rate of complete and near-complete occlusion, successful device implantation, and serious adverse events were pooled using STATA, version 17.

RESULTS

A total of 5 studies with 110 patients with WNBAs were systematically investigated. Our findings show that the immediate successful implantation rate of eCLIPs was 0.93 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.88-0.97). Moreover, the immediate postoperative complete occlusion rate was 0.34 (95% CI, 0.10-0.58), and the immediate postoperative near-complete occlusion rate was 0.35 (95% CI, 0.24-0.45). Also, the near-complete occlusion rate at the latest follow-up was 0.3 (95% CI, 0.16-0.44). The serious adverse event rate was 0.14 (95% CI, 0.05-0.22). Stroke was also reported in 2 studies, with 1 study reporting 1 patient who experienced stroke within the first 24 hours and 1 study reporting no patients with stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings document that the eCLIPs is a safe and effective device for treating patients with WNBAs and associated with favorable outcomes.

Six-month Outcomes after PulseRider- and Conventional Single Stent-assisted Embolization for Bifurcation Aneurysms: A Propensity-adjusted Comparison

Endovascular treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms (WNBAs) remains challenging despite using a stent. PulseRider is a novel device specifically designed to treat WNBAs, protecting both daughter branches, but the outcomes have not been compared with conventional single stent-assisted embolization. This study aimed to compare the six-month outcomes of PulseRider and single stent-assisted embolization for intracranial unruptured WNBAs using propensity score adjustment. Between February 2012 and October 2021, 46 unruptured WNBAs (34 basilar and 12 middle cerebral arteries) smaller than 10 mm in diameter were treated with PulseRider-assisted embolization (n = 17) or single stent-assisted embolization (n = 29). The immediate and six-month outcomes were compared using inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis. The immediate adequate occlusion rates for the PulseRider- and single stent-assisted embolization were similar (47.1% vs. 62.1%). At six months, adequate occlusion rates for the two groups were also similar (94.1% vs. 86.2%). However, the complete obliteration rate was significantly high after PulseRider-assisted embolization (88.2% vs. 41.4%, adjusted OR 10.54, 95% CI 1.93-57.63). The angiographical improvement rate was also significantly high after PulseRider-assisted embolization (70.6% vs. 37.9%, adjusted OR 6.06, 95% CI 1.54-23.76). The neurologic thromboembolic complication rate was 0% after PulseRider-assisted embolization and 3.4% after single stent-assisted embolization. PulseRider-assisted embolization of WNBAs smaller than 10 mm in diameter was associated with complete obliteration and angiographical improvement at six months. The unique shape of the PulseRider might contribute to the improved midterm aneurysm occlusion.

Additional rescue stenting with Neuroform Atlas stents during stent-assisted coiling of saccular aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Overlapping stenting is sometimes attempted during endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysm as a rescue for coil herniation, stent mal-positioning, or in-stent thrombosis. We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of additional rescue stenting (ARS) in telescoping fashion with Neuroform Atlas stent (NAS) during stent-assisted coiling of saccular aneurysms.

METHODS

We collected clinical and radiological data of patients with saccular aneurysms treated with ARS using NASs between March 2018 and December 2021. Y or X-stent-assisted coiling technique was excluded.

RESULTS

Eighteen unruptured and 5 ruptured aneurysms in 23 patients were treated with ARS using NASs. Sizes of aneurysms ranged from 2.0 mm to 10.0 mm (mean: 5.0 mm). Immediate angiographic results were complete occlusion in 11 aneurysms, residual neck in 4 aneurysms, and residual sac in 8 aneurysms. Peri-operative morbidity was 4.3 %. Nineteen of 23 patients underwent follow-up conventional angiography (mean, 9.9 months). Results showed progressive occlusion in 10 (52.6 %) cases and asymptomatic in-stent stenosis in 3 (15.8 %) cases. At the end of the observation period (mean, 17.4 months), all 18 patients without subarachnoid hemorrhage had excellent clinical outcomes (mRS of 0), except one (mRS of 1). Of five patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage, four had a favorable outcome (mRS of 0-1), while the other one was dependent (mRS of 4).

CONCLUSION

In this report on 23 patients, ARS with NASs for treating saccular aneurysms showed good technical safety with favorable clinical and angiographic outcomes. However, delayed in-stent stenosis was not uncommon. Thus, regular imaging follow-up is required.

The Angiographic and Clinical Follow-up Outcomes of the Wide-Necked and Complex Intracranial Aneurysms Treated With LVIS EVO-Assisted Coiling

BACKGROUND

The Low Profile Visible Intraluminal Support EVO (LVIS EVO) is a self-expandable braided stent, which was recently introduced for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Full visibility of the stent and a relatively high metal coverage ratio are the unique features of the LVIS EVO.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety, efficacy, and midterm durability of LVIS EVO stent-assisted coiling for the treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms.

METHODS

The endovascular databases were reviewed to identify patients treated with LVIS EVO-assisted coiling. The technical success and immediate clinical/angiographic outcomes were assessed. Periprocedural and delayed complications were evaluated. The follow-up angiographic/clinical outcomes were investigated. The preprocedural/follow-up neurological statuses were assessed with the modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS

One hundred three aneurysms in 103 patients (63 females) with a mean age of 54.9 ± 11.3 years were included. The mean maximum sac diameter was 6.2 ± 2.9 mm. The procedural technical success rate was 100%. Immediate postprocedural angiography showed complete occlusion in 77.7%. The mean duration of the angiographic follow-up was 8.8 ± 3.6 months. Follow-up angiography showed complete aneurysm occlusion in 89% of the 82 patients with angiographic follow-up. Recanalization was observed in 7.3% of 82 patients. Two patients (2.4%) required retreatment. In addition, 8.7% of the patients had at least 1 complication, and 2.9% of the patients developed a permanent morbidity. All patients had mRS scores ≤2.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study demonstrate that SAC with LVIS EVO is a relatively safe, efficient, and durable treatment for wide-necked and complex intracranial aneurysms.

Assessment of balloon remodeling techniques in endovascular treatment of wide-neck intracranial aneurysms (WN-IAs)

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical, technical, and angiographic results in endovascular management of wide-neck intracranial aneurysms (WN-IAs) using the balloon-remodeling technique.

METHODS

This study was a prospective, single-center study that was carried out over a period of three years from January 2019 to December 2021 at the Neuro-Interventional Unit at our hospital. Patients who presented with WNIAs and were eligible for endovascular treatment using the balloon-remodeling approach were included in the study.

RESULTS

We included 37 patients with a mean age of 49.7 ± 12.3 years. About 91.9% of the participants had SAH, 5.4% had unruptured aneurysms, and 2.7% had intracranial hemorrhage. The mean time to treatment was 6.97 ± 7.35 days, the mean aneurysm diameter was 5.7 ± 1.7 mm, and the mean neck diameter was 3.8 ± 1.0 mm. The majority of the patients had a dom-to-neck ratio of less than 2 (89.2%). We have used hyper form balloons in 48.6%, hyper glide in 43.2%, Copernic balloons in 5.4%, and eclipse in 2.7%. According to the Raymond-Roy occlusion classification, 86.5% of the patients had complete obliteration, 10.8% had residual neck, and 2.7% had a residual aneurysm. Almost 91.9% had no complications, 2.7% had ischemia, and 5.4% had mild rupture by wire, treated by 5 min hyperinflation of the balloon till hemorrhage stopped.

CONCLUSIONS

Balloon-assisted detachable coiling is an important option in the treatment of WN-IAs. We found that this technique allowed safe and efficient treatment of aneurysms when conventional treatment had failed due to WN. Endovascular coiling using the balloon remodeling technique of wide neck showed a high technical success rate and good short-term clinical outcomes. A good selection of patients with WN-IAs treated by endovascular coiling using balloon remodeling technique and a good selection of materials used help in decreasing the complications.

Safety and effectiveness of double microcatheter technique in the treatment of ruptured aneurysms of anterior cerebral circulation

Objective

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the double microcatheter technique in the treatment of ruptured aneurysms of the anterior cerebral circulation.

Methods

Between 2012 and 2019, 113 patients with ruptured aneurysms of the anterior cerebral circulation were treated using the double microcatheter technique. Clinical records, angiographic results, and procedure-related complications were reviewed. Clinical and angiographic follow-up was performed.

Results

Complete occlusion, neck remnant, and partial occlusion were, respectively, recorded in 56.6, 38.9, and 4.4% of the total cases. For all patients, the incidence of intraoperative complications was 5.3% (6/113), and the overall rate of morbidity was 10.6% (12/113). Before discharge, three patients (2.7%) died. There was no procedure-related mortality. At discharge, favorable outcomes were observed in 79.6% (90/113) of the patients. High Hunt-Hess grades and receiving a craniotomy or external ventricular drainage were risk factors for clinical outcomes at discharge. Clinical follow-up was performed in 91 patients at a mean interval of 14.07 ± 11.68 months. At follow-up, favorable outcomes were observed in 92.3% (84/91) of the patients. Angiographic follow-up was performed in 66 patients at an average of 11.53 ± 11.13 months. The recurrence rate was 37.9%. Of these patients, 13 (19.7%) received retreatment.

Conclusion

The double microcatheter technique can be performed in ruptured aneurysms with high technical success and low morbidity/mortality. However, recurrence remains a problem, and patients should be followed up regularly.

Microcatheter-guided compartment packing of acutely ruptured complex intracerebral aneurysms (ARCIAs): Preliminary experience and technical note

Objective

We present our initial experience using the microcatheter-guided compartment packing (MCP) technique for endovascular embolization of acutely ruptured complex intracerebral aneurysms (ARCIAs) and evaluate the safety, feasibility, and efficiency of this technique.

Methods

This retrospective, single-center study included 28 patients who underwent coil embolization using the MCP technique for ARCIAs at our institution between January 2021 and January 2022. The MCP technique was the placement of microcatheters in different compartments within the aneurysm to deploy the coils simultaneously or sequentially. Patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, procedural parameters, grade of occlusion, complications, and clinical results were analyzed. The clinical outcomes were evaluated with modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores.

Results

Of the 28 patients successfully treated with the MCP technique, 24 (85.7%) aneurysms were considered as complete occlusions (Raymond I) based on the immediate postembolization angiogram results. Complications occurred in 2/28 treatments, including guidewire perforation with subarachnoid hemorrhage and cerebral vasospasm-related cerebral infarction. An angiography follow-up demonstrated complete occlusion in 25/28 aneurysms. Twenty-six (92.9%) patients had favorable 90-day outcomes (mRS 0-2) after the endovascular coil embolization.

Conclusion

The MCP technique is simple, safe, and effective, achieving good packing density and initial occlusion rate when used to treat ARCIAs.

Comaneci-Assisted Coiling of Wide-Necked Intracranial Aneurysm: A Single-Center Preliminary Experience

BACKGROUND

Wide-necked aneurysms remain challenging for both coiling and microsurgical clipping. They often require additional techniques to prevent coil prolapse into the parent artery, such as balloon- and stent-assisted coiling. Comaneci is an expandable and removable stent that acts as a bridging device and does not interfere with the blood flow of the parent artery.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our institutional radiological and clinical chart of patients treated for saccular intracranial aneurysm via endovascular Comaneci-assisted coiling. The aim of the study was to report our preliminary experience in Comaneci-assisted coiling of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms.

RESULTS

We included 14 patients in the study. Of these, 11 had a ruptured intracranial aneurysm and were treated with Comaneci-assisted coiling. We registered five minor intraprocedural complications and two intraprocedural failures of the device. At one-year follow-up, a satisfying aneurysm occlusion was observed in 85% of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Though long-term follow-up data and larger case series are needed, this preliminary study showed the feasibility of the Comaneci-assisted coiling method for both ruptured and unruptured wide-neck intracranial aneurysms, with similar occlusion rates as balloon-assisted coiling. However, we registered high incidence of thromboembolic complications; these were probably related to the lack of heparin administration. The main advantageous application of this technique is likely in cases of ruptured intracranial aneurysms, as there is no need for post-procedural antiplatelet therapy.

Risk factors of recurrence after endovascular embolization of posterior communicating artery aneurysms

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To determine the risk factors for recurrence after endovascular embolization of posterior communicating artery aneurysms (PcomA).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 163 patients harboring 172 PocmAs who were treated with endovascular embolization from January 2019 to December 2020. The patients were divided into recurrence and stable groups depending on outcome. Univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the potential risk factors of recurrence during follow-up.

RESULTS

Of the total 163 patients harboring 172 aneurysms, 107 were treated with simple coil occlusion and 65 were treated with stent-assisted coil embolization. There were significant differences in aneurysm sizes and use of non-stent-assisted coil embolizations between the groups (P < 0.05). The incidence of saccular aneurysm and Raymond grade were significantly higher in the recurrent group than in the stable group (P < 0.01). After variable selection, Raymond grade, aneurysm size, saccular aneurysm and non-stent-assisted coil embolization were included in further analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations with non-stent-assisted coil embolization (P = 0.007), packing density (P < 0.001) and Raymond grades II (P < 0.001) and III (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Non-stent-assisted coil embolization, as well as packing density and Raymond grades II grade III are associated with recurrence after endovascular treatment of PcomA.

"Virtual stent" - clinical evaluation and user experience of on-the-fly stent simulation in treatment of cerebral aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Predicting final stent position can be challenging when treating cerebral aneurysms. Third-Party software proved helpful in selecting proper stents in treatment planning. Recent angiographic systems provide basic stent simulation capabilities integrated in the post-processing software to simulate stent position. Goal of this analysis was to evaluate the simulation process and correlation with definite stent position.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-three datasets with fusiform (n = 10) and saccular (n = 23) aneurysms, treated with stent or flow-diverter, were processed. A "virtual stent" of the same (nominal) size was simulated and its position was compared to the treatment result. Simulated length was rated in five grades (too short, shorter, equal, longer, too long), with regard to side-branches, anchoring zone etc. Simulation quality (centerline recognition/adherence to vessel margins) was rated in three grades (no, minor or major corrections required).

RESULTS

Simulation was successful in 32/33 cases (97%), with one abortive attempt (3%). In 27/33 simulations (82%), there was no need for centerline refinement. Minor corrections were necessary in four and major corrections in two cases. Simulated nominal length was rated "equal" in 14/33 (42%) cases and "shorter" or "longer" - but within acceptable range - in each 9/33 (27%) cases.

CONCLUSION

Basic stent simulation tools available with genuine angiographic workplace software can provide good simulation capabilities without need for third-party equipment. They can facilitate treatment planning and help to avoid shortage of devices. Yet, lack of calculation of foreshortening in large vessel diameters leaves the user to rely on their experience to account for device-specific properties.

Results of Y-stent-assisted-coiling with a low-profile Neuroform Atlas stent in complex bifurcation aneurysms

Aim: Neuroform Atlas is a low-profile stent with an open-cell structure that can be deployed via a low-profile microcatheter. This study analyzed the safety, durability, and efficiency of Y-stent-assisted coiling (Y-SAC) with two Neuroform Atlas stents for treating unruptured wide-neck complex bifurcation aneurysms. Material and method: We retrospectively reviewed patients who were treated for intracranial bifurcation aneurysms using the Y-SAC technique with two Neuroform Atlas stents. A total of 94 consecutive patients were included in the study. Clinical and angiographic results and complications were evaluated before and after the procedure. Results: Y-SAC was successfully performed (100%) without any technical complications in any case. The mean angiographic follow-up period was 14.6±6.6 months. Follow-up DSA was performed on 93.6% of patients. The last follow-up angiograms demonstrated complete occlusion (RROC I) in 92%, and near-complete occlusion (RROC II) in 7% of the aneurysms. There was no mortality in this study. A procedure-related complication occurred in 4.2% of patients and caused permanent morbidity in 1% of patients. Conclusion: In the endovascular treatment of wide-neck complex bifurcation aneurysms, the Y-SAC method with two Neuroform Atlas stents is safe and effective with high aneurysm occlusion rates and a low risk of procedural complications.

Intra-procedural complications, success rate, and need for retreatment of endovascular treatments in anterior communicating artery aneurysms: a systematic review and meta-analysis

In recent years, intracranial aneurysms have been widely treated with endovascular methods. The anterior communicating artery (Acom) is the most common site of intracranial aneurysms. Despite its effectiveness, endovascular interventions can be associated with various intra-procedural and post-procedural complications. A systematic review of the literature was performed through PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Sciences databases up to March 18, 2022. The pooled rates of intra-procedural complications, mortality, procedure-related morbidities, the immediate and late aneurysm occlusion, and also the necessity for retreatment were calculated by applying random-effects models. A total of 41 articles with 4583 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled rate of overall intra-procedural complications was 9.6% (95% CI: 7.7 to 11.8%). The initial rupture status and also type of EVT procedure did not affect the overall complication rate. The pooled rate of intra-procedural thrombosis, aneurysm rupture, coil prolapse, and early aneurysm rebleeding were 6.1% (95% CI: 4.5 to 8.2%); 4.2% (95% CI: 3.4 to 5.2%), 4.7% (95% CI: 3.2 to 6.7%), and 2.2% (95% CI: 1.5 to 3.2%), respectively. Our analysis showed that intra-procedural mortality occurred in 1.7% (95% CI: 1.1 to 2.5%) and procedure-related permanent morbidities in 3.3% (95% CI: 2.3 to 4.7%) of patients. Endovascular methods achieved complete and near to complete aneurysm occlusion (Raymond-Roy occlusion classification 1 and 2) in 89.2% (95% CI: 86.4 to 92.5%) of cases post-procedure, and 9.5% (95% CI: 7.3 to 12.4%) of patients needed retreatment due to recanalization in follow-ups. Endovascular treatment can serve as an acceptable method for Acom aneurysms. However, improved endovascular treatment equipment and new techniques provide more satisfactory outcomes for complicated cases.

The Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device: feasibility, techniques, and outcomes after FDA approval

OBJECTIVE

Wide-neck bifurcation cerebral aneurysms have historically required either clip ligation or stent- or balloon-assisted coil embolization. This predicament led to the development of the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) aneurysm embolization system, a self-expanding mesh device that achieves intrasaccular flow disruption and does not require antithrombotic medications. The authors report their operative experience and 6-month follow-up occlusion outcomes with the first 115 aneurysms they treated via WEB embolization.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the first 115 cerebral aneurysms they treated by WEB embolization after FDA approval of the WEB embolization device (from February 2019 to January 2021). Data were collected on patient demographics and clinical presentation, aneurysm characteristics, procedural details, postembolization angiographic contrast stasis, and functional outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 110 patients and 115 aneurysms were included in our study (34 ruptured and 81 unruptured aneurysms). WEB embolization was successful in 106 (92.2%) aneurysms, with a complication occurring in 6 (5.5%) patients. Contrast clearance was seen in the arterial phase in 14 (12.2%) aneurysms, in the capillary phase in 16 (13.9%), in the venous phase in 63 (54.8%), and no contrast was seen in 13 (11.3%) of the aneurysms studied. Follow-up angiography was performed on 60 (52.6%) of the aneurysms, with complete occlusion in 38 (63.3%), neck remnant in 14 (23.3%), and aneurysmal remnant in 8 (13.3%). Six (5.5%) patients required re-treatment for persistent aneurysmal residual on follow-up angiography.

CONCLUSIONS

The WEB device has been successfully used for the treatment of both unruptured and ruptured wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms by achieving intrasaccular flow diversion. Here, the authors have shared their experience with its unique technical considerations and device size selection, as well as critically reviewed complications and aneurysm occlusion rates.

Safety, Efficacy, and Durability of Stent-Assisted Coiling Treatment of M2 (Insular) Segment MCA Aneurysms

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Most distal MCA aneurysms are located within the insular segment, which lies between the limen insulae and circular sulcus. However, experience is limited in the microsurgical and endovascular management of insular segment MCA aneurysms. In this multicenter retrospective case series, we aimed to investigate the safety, efficacy, and durability of stent-assisted coiling for treatment of insular segment MCA aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was performed to identify patients with insular MCA aneurysms that were treated with stent-assisted coiling. The technical success of the procedures and the initial and follow-up clinical and angiographic outcomes were assessed. Periprocedural and delayed complications were reviewed.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven aneurysms in 27 patients with a mean age of 53.3 (SD,11.3) years were included. The mean size of the aneurysms was 6.3 (SD 2.6) mm. Endovascular procedures were successfully performed in all patients. Immediate postprocedural angiography revealed complete aneurysm occlusions in 81.5%. Periprocedural complications developed in 7.4% without causing permanent morbidity. A delayed thromboembolic complication resulted in a minor permanent morbidity in 1 patient (3.7%). There was no mortality. The mean duration of angiographic follow-up was 19.5 (SD, 9.8)  months. The last follow-up examinations showed complete occlusion in 92.6%. During the follow-up period, none of the treated aneurysms showed recanalization.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrate that stent-assisted coiling with a low-profile self-expandable stent is a feasible and relatively safe technique for endovascular treatment of insular segment complex MCA aneurysms. Additionally, it provides an effective and durable treatment for insular MCA aneurysms.

Comaneci plus Balloon-assisted Embolization of Ruptured Wide-necked Cerebral Aneurysms

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Recently, avant-garde combinations of ancillary devices as an adjunct to coil embolization for acutely ruptured and wide-necked cerebral aneurysms have emerged. This study sought to investigate the feasibility, safety and durability of the simultaneous combination of temporary neck-bridging devices plus balloon-assisted coiling (BAC) to treat acutely ruptured and wide-necked cerebral aneurysms.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of patients with ruptured and wide-necked intracranial bifurcation aneurysms treated with temporary stent plus balloon-assisted coiling. Anatomical features, technical details, intraprocedural complications, clinical and angiographic results were reviewed. Preprocedural and follow-up clinical statuses were evaluated using the modified Rankin scale (mRS).

RESULTS

A total of 21 patients (mean age 54.5 years, range 37-72 years) were identified. The immediate postprocedural angiography revealed complete aneurysm occlusion in 85.7% (18/21) of the cases. A periprocedural complication developed in 9.5% of the cases. There was no mortality in this study. The permanent morbidity rate was 4.7%. Long-term follow-up angiography was performed in 18 of 21 patients (85.7%) (the mean follow-up period was 21 months). The rate of complete aneurysm occlusion at final follow-up was 89.4%.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study confirmed that temporary stent plus balloon-assisted coiling is a durable and relatively safe endovascular technique for the treatment of ruptured wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms located in both the posterior and anterior cerebral circulation.

Y-stent-assisted coiling with Neuroform Atlas stents for wide-necked intracranial bifurcation aneurysms: A preliminary report

Objective

To report our experience on Neuroform Atlas Y-stenting for coiling of unruptured wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms.

Methods

From March 2018 to January 2021, we treated 473 aneurysms in 436 patients with coil embolization, of which 15 cases with wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms were treated by Y-stent-assisted coiling with two Neuroform Atlas stents. We retrospectively reviewed the characteristics of patients and aneurysms, procedure-related complications, radiographic results, and clinical outcomes.

Results

All 15 cases using Neuroform Atlas Y-stenting were successful. Patients included 6 men and 9 women with a mean age ± standard deviation of 56.4±6.6 years. The mean dome and neck sizes were 6.4±3.1 mm and 4.7±1.8 mm, respectively. Immediate post-procedural angiograms showed complete occlusion in 46.7%, neck remnant in 13.3%, and incomplete occlusion in 40% of cases. No treatment-related morbidity or mortality occurred in any patients. All patients had good clinical outcomes (Glasgow Outcome Score 5) at both discharge and during a mean 12.3-month (range 1-28 months) follow-up. All aneurysms showed improved or stable occlusion on follow-up imaging. Further, the latest follow-up angiography showed complete occlusion in 73.3%, neck remnant in 6.7%, and incomplete occlusion in 20%.

Conclusions

Y-stent-assisted coiling with Neuroform Atlas stents might be a feasible and safe option for wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms.

Long-term follow-up of the pCONus device for the treatment of wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms

PURPOSE

Wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms remain challenging for the neurointerventionist and/or neurosurgeon despite many recent advances. The pCONus (Phenox, Bochum, Germany) is an emerging device for endovascular neck protection, we report the first long-term results of this device.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of all consecutive intracranial wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms treated with the pCONus. Patients' characteristics were reviewed, procedural complications, angiographic (Roy-Raymond scale) and clinical outcomes were documented.

RESULTS

Between January 2016 and September 2019, 43 patients (74% female, median age 56 [49-66] years) with 43 wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms (mean width of 6.8 ± 2.1 mm, dome/neck ratio of 1.3 ± 0.2 and neck of 5.2 ± 1.3 mm) were included. A procedural angiographic complication was reported in five patients (12%), no patient presented a post-operative neurological deficit or long-term complication, mortality rate was 0%. At last follow-up (median of 46.5 months [38.3-51.7]), an adequate occlusion (complete and neck remnant) was observed in 37/43 patients (86%) and an aneurysm remnant in 6/43 (14%). Four patients (9%) needed retreatment. No in-stent stenosis or branch occlusion was depicted.

CONCLUSION

pCONus device provides a safe and efficient alternative for endovascular wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms management, with long-term stability.

Comparison of Long-Term Angiographic Results of Wide-Necked Intracranial Aneurysms : Endovascular Treatment with Single-Microcatheter Coiling, Double-Microcatheter Coiling, and Stent-Assisted Coiling

Objective

Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms is challenging in case of wide-necked aneurysms because coils are prone to herniate into the parent artery, causing thromboembolic events or vessel occlusion. This study aims to compare long-term angiographic results of wide-necked aneurysms treated by stent-assisted, double-microcatheter, or single-microcatheter groups.

Methods

Between January 2003 and October 2016, 108 aneurysms that were treated with endovascular coil embolization with a neck size wider than 4 mm and a follow-up period of more than 3 years were selected. We performed coil embolization with singlemicrocatheter, double-microcatheter, and stent-assisted techniques. Angiographic results were evaluated using the Raymond-Roy occlusion classification (RROC). All medical and angiographic records were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

Clinical and angiographic analyses were conducted in 108 wide-necked aneurysms. The immediate post-procedural results revealed RROC class I (complete occlusion) in 66 cases (61.1%), class II (residual neck) in 36 cases (33.3%), and class III (residual sac) in six cases (5.6%). The final follow-up results revealed class I in 48 cases (44.4%), class II in 49 cases (45.4%), and class III in 11 cases (10.2%). Of a total of 45 (41.6%) radiologic recurrences, there were 21 cases (19.4%) of major recurrence that required additional treatment, and 24 cases (22.2%) of minor recurrence. The final follow-up angiographic results showed statistically significant differences between the stent-assisted group and the others (p<0.01).

Conclusion

Long-term follow-up angiography demonstrated that the stent-assisted technique had a better complete occlusion rate than the other two techniques.

Safety, Efficacy, and Durability of Stent Plus Balloon-Assisted Coiling for the Treatment of Wide-Necked Intracranial Bifurcation Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms remain a challenge for endovascular surgeons. Dual-stent-assisted coiling techniques have been defined to treat bifurcation aneurysms with a complex neck morphology. However, there are still concerns about the safety of dual-stenting procedures. Stent plus balloon-assisted coiling is a recently described endovascular technique that enables the coiling of wide-necked complex bifurcation aneurysms by implanting only a single stent.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility, efficacy, safety, and durability of this technique for the treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of patients with wide-necked intracranial bifurcation aneurysms treated with stent plus balloon-assisted coiling. The initial and follow-up clinical and angiographic outcomes were assessed. Preprocedural and follow-up clinical statuses were assessed using modified Rankin scale.

RESULTS

A total of 61 patients (mean age: 54.6 ± 10.4 yr) were included in the study. The immediate postprocedural digital subtraction angiography revealed complete aneurysm occlusion in 86.9% of the cases. A periprocedural complication developed in 11.5% of the cases. We observed a delayed ischemic complication in 4.9%. There was no mortality in this study. The permanent morbidity rate was 3.3%. The follow-up angiography was performed in 55 of 61 patients (90.1%) (the mean follow-up period was 25.5 ± 27.3 mo). The rate of complete aneurysm occlusion at the final angiographic follow-up was 89.1%. The retreatment rate was 1.8%.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that stent plus balloon-assisted coiling is a feasible, effective, and relatively safe endovascular technique for the treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms located in the posterior and anterior circulation.

Early Experience with Comaneci, a Newly FDA-Approved Controllable Assist Device for Wide-Necked Intracranial Aneurysm Coiling

BACKGROUND

Comaneci (Rapid Medical) is a compliant, adjustable mesh that provides temporary scaffolding during coiling of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms (WNAs) that preserves antegrade flow. We report our early multi-institutional experience with the Comaneci device in the USA.

METHOD

We reviewed all patients with WNAs that were treated using the Comaneci device for coil remodeling of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms at 4 institutions between July 2019 and May 2020. Clinical characteristics, angiographic variables, and endovascular results were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 26 patients were included (18 women). The mean age was 62.7 years (range 44-81). Fifteen patients presented with ruptured aneurysms and 11 with unruptured aneurysms. The mean aneurysm neck width was 3.91 mm (range 1.9-6.5) with a mean dome-to-neck ratio of 1.57 (range 0.59-3.39). The mean maximum width was 5.80 mm (range 3.0-9.9) and the mean maximum height was 5.61 mm (range 2.0-11.8). Successful aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 25 of 26 patients. Complete occlusion was achieved in 16 patients, near-complete occlusion was observed in 9 patients, and 1 patient demonstrated residual filling. The mean time of device exposure was 24 min (range 8-76). No vasospasm was observed at the device location. Clot formation on the device was noted in 2 separate cases, but there were no clinical sequelae. There was 1 intraprocedural complication in a case that involved the simultaneous use of 2 Comaneci devices.

CONCLUSIONS

Our initial experience shows that the Comaneci device is a promising and reliable tool that can safely support coil remodeling of WNAs.

Long-term outcomes of wide-necked intracranial bifurcation aneurysms treated with T-stent-assisted coiling

OBJECTIVE

The endovascular treatment of complex bifurcation aneurysms possessing a neck that incorporates multiple side branches remains a surgical challenge. Double-stent-assisted coiling techniques, such as those with stents in an X and Y configuration, enable the endovascular treatment of wide-necked complex intracranial bifurcation aneurysms. However, the intraluminal struts at the intersection point in X- and Y-stents are not amenable to endothelialization, which may lead to thromboembolic complications. Stenting in the T configuration is a relatively new double-stent coiling technique. T-stenting differs from X- or Y-stenting in that there are no overlapping or intersecting stent segments. Promising short-term results of T-stent-assisted coiling were recently reported. However, the long-term results have not yet been demonstrated. This retrospective study investigated the long-term angiographic and clinical results in patients with wide-necked complex intracranial bifurcation aneurysms treated with T-stent-assisted coiling.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed to identify patients with wide-necked complex intracranial bifurcation aneurysms treated with T-stent-assisted coiling at 4 institutions. The technical success and the initial and follow-up clinical and angiographic outcomes were assessed. Aneurysm filling status was assessed according to the Raymond classification. Periprocedural and delayed complications were reviewed. The neurological status of the patients was evaluated using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

RESULTS

One hundred two aneurysms in 102 patients (54 females), whose mean age was 57.9 ± 13.0 years, were included in the study. T-stenting was performed successfully in all patients. Immediate postprocedural angiography revealed complete occlusion in 83.3% of patients. Periprocedural complications developed in 13.7%, resulting in permanent morbidity in 1.9% and death in 1%. Eighty patients (78.4%) had at least one follow-up DSA examination performed at 6 months or later following the endovascular procedure. The mean duration of angiographic follow-up was 30.0 ± 16.3 months. The last follow-up examinations showed complete occlusion in 90.0% of patients. During the follow-up period, only 1 patient (1.3%) required retreatment. Delayed thromboembolic complications were observed in 4 patients (3.9%) without permanent morbidity. The mRS scores of all patients at the last clinical follow-up were between 0 and 2.

CONCLUSIONS

The short-term angiographic findings showed that T-stent-assisted coiling is a feasible and effective endovascular method to treat wide-necked complex bifurcation aneurysms. The long-term angiographic follow-up results suggest that T-stent-assisted coiling provides a durable treatment for wide-necked complex bifurcation aneurysms with favorable clinical outcomes, demonstrating the long-term safety of T-stent-assisted coiling.

Safety and Efficacy of the Neuroform Atlas Stent for Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms : A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

The Neuroform Atlas (Stryker Neurovascular, Fremont, CA, USA) is a low-profile laser cut self-expanding nitinol stent designed to provide coil support and wall apposition during aneurysm embolisation. In this study, we performed a meta-analysis of outcomes after treatment with the Neuroform Atlas stent for the purpose of coil embolisation.

METHODS

The primary objectives of this meta-analysis were to define the safety (treatment-related complications, neurologic outcomes, mortality rate) and the efficacy (aneurysm occlusion rate) of the treatment of intracranial aneurysms with the Neuroform Atlas stent. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane CENTRAL Library for all published studies on the treatment of intracranial aneurysms with the Neuroform Atlas device up to 6 April 2020. The review was prepared in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

RESULTS

A total of 14 studies were analysed (577 patients with 593 intracranial aneurysms). The mean age was 58.2 years and 35.6% were male. Technical success of the procedure was 100%. RROC1/RROC2 (Raymond-Roy occlusion classification (RROC) 1/2) (total occlusion/neck remnant) at a mean follow-up of 8.9 months was achieved in 94.8%. RROC3 was 4.9%. All-cause mortality was 1.8% and permanent residual neurological deficit or disability was 2.7%. Overall complications at follow-up were 6.2%.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis demonstrated good rates of occlusion at follow-up for aneurysms treated with the Atlas device at follow-up. The safety profile appears similar to other low-profile intracranial stents.

Embolization with Stent-Assisted Technique for Wide-Necked Extremely Small Intracranial Aneurysm with Diameter no more than 2 mm

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the safety and efficacy of embolization with stent-assisted technique for wide-necked extremely small intracranial aneurysms (ESIAs) with diameter no more than 2 mm.

METHODS

From May 2015 through January 2019, 20 wide-necked ESIAs in 19 patients (6 males and 13 females, aged from 38 to 72 years old, average 59 years old) were embolized with stent-assisted technique. All these patients had a total of 29 aneurysms, 7 patients had multiple aneurysms and 1 patient had 2 ESIAs. 12 patients (63.2%) presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), 9 of them have a culprit ESIA. The angiographic results before and after operation, procedural complications, and clinical condition with Hunt and Hess grade (H-H) and Fisher grade, as well as Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) at discharge were assessed. Follow-up results were evaluated by computer tomograph angiography (CTA) or digital subtract angiography (DSA).

RESULTS

The mean diameter of aneurysm neck was 1.68 ± 0.21 mm. Complete occlusion with Raymond grade I was achieved in 18 aneurysms (90.9%), 2 aneurysms were subtotal embolization with Raymond grade II (9.1%). All patients were treated with coil embolization with stent-assist technique successfully and all the stents were placed accurately and function well during the procedure. There is no rupture of aneurysm during operation, no coil protrusion to the distal blood vessel, and no cerebral infarction as well. When discharged, all patients recovered well. The follow-up results showed that only one patients with recurrence of aneurysm 27 months after embolization.

CONCLUSION

Embolization with stent-assisted technique for wide-necked ESIAs is safe and effective. However, the follow-up is not long enough in our study and a larger sample size are needed to obtain the long-term efficacy.

Comaneci device-assisted embolization of wide-necked carotid aneurysms with an unfavorable ratio

Background

Endovascular treatment is the technique of choice for most intracranial aneurysms. However, the treatment of morphologically complex wide-necked aneurysms with an unfavorable anatomy is still a therapeutic challenge.

The purpose of the study is to describe the initial experience with the Comaneci embolization assist device for the treatment of wide-necked aneurysms with an unfavorable ratio for direct embolization.

Methods

We report a retrospective single-center analysis taken from a prospective database of consecutive aneurysms of the anterior circulation treated using the Comaneci device in the period from March 2017 to March 2019.

Results

Eighteen aneurysms were collected from 16 patients (9 women and 7 men) treated using the Comaneci device. The mean age was 48.4 years (range 36–81). Twelve patients had SAH, three were incidental aneurysms and one had compressive symptoms. A complete asymptomatic occlusion rate of 88.8% was obtained. The major complication rate was 5.55%.

Conclusion

The Comaneci embolization assist device is a safe, effective option for endovascular treatment of complex aneurysms with an unfavorable ratio.

Efficacy and safety of PulseRider for treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysm-A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

PulseRider is a novel self-expanding nickel-titanium (nitinol) stent for treatment of wide-necked aneurysms, which is commonly located at the arterial branches in the brain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to assess the efficacy and safety of PulseRider for treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysm.

METHOD

We performed a systematic literature search on articles that evaluate the efficacy and safety of PulseRider-assisted coiling of the wide-necked aneurysm from several electronic databases. The primary endpoint was adequate occlusion, defined as Raymond-Roy Class I + Raymond-Roy Class II upon immediate angiography and at six-month follow-up.

RESULTS

There were a total of 157 subjects from six studies. The rate of adequate occlusion on immediate angiography was 90% (95% CI, 85%-94%) and 91% (95% CI, 85%-96%) at six-month follow-up. Of these, Raymond-Roy Class I can be observed in 48% (95% CI, 41%-56%) of aneurysms immediately after coiling, and 64% (95% CI, 55%-72%) of aneurysms on six-month follow-up. Raymond-Roy Class II was found in 30% (95% CI, 23%-37%) of aneurysms immediately after coiling, and 25% (17-33) after six-month follow-up. Complications occur in 5% (95% CI, 1%-8%) of the patients. There were three intraoperative aneurysm rupture, three thrombus formation, three procedure-related posterior cerebral artery strokes, one vessel dissection, and one delayed device thrombosis. There was no procedure/device-related death.

CONCLUSIONS

PulseRider-assisted coiling for treatment of patients with wide-necked aneurysm reached 90% adequate occlusion rate that rises up to 91% at sixth month with 5% complication rate.

Pivotal Trial of the Neuroform Atlas Stent for Treatment of Anterior Circulation Aneurysms: One-Year Outcomes

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Stent-assisted coil embolization using the new generation Neuroform Atlas Stent System has shown promising safety and efficacy. The primary study results of the anterior circulation aneurysm cohort of the treatment of wide-neck, saccular, intracranial, aneurysms with the Neuroform Atlas Stent System (ATLAS trial [Safety and Effectiveness of the Treatment of Wide Neck, Saccular Intracranial Aneurysms With the Neuroform Atlas Stent System]) are presented.

METHODS

ATLAS IDE trial (Investigational Device Exemption) is a prospective, multicenter, single-arm, open-label study of wide-neck (neck ≥4 mm or dome-to-neck ratio <2) intracranial aneurysms in the anterior circulation treated with the Neuroform Atlas Stent and approved coils. The primary efficacy end point was complete aneurysm occlusion (Raymond-Roy class 1) on 12-month angiography, in the absence of retreatment or parent artery stenosis (>50%) at the target location. The primary safety end point was any major stroke or ipsilateral stroke or neurological death within 12 months. Adjudication of the primary end points was performed by an independent Imaging Core Laboratory and the Clinical Events Committee.

RESULTS

A total of 182 patients with wide-neck anterior circulation aneurysms at 25 US centers were enrolled. The mean age was 60.3±11.4 years, 73.1% (133/182) women, and 80.8% (147/182) white. Mean aneurysm size was 6.1±2.2 mm, mean neck width was 4.1±1.2 mm, and mean dome-to-neck ratio was 1.2±0.3. The most frequent aneurysm locations were the anterior communicating artery (64/182, 35.2%), internal carotid artery ophthalmic artery segment (29/182, 15.9%), and middle cerebral artery bifurcation (27/182, 14.8%). Stents were placed in the anticipated anatomic location in all patients. The study met both primary safety and efficacy end points. The composite primary efficacy end point of complete aneurysm occlusion (Raymond-Roy 1) without parent artery stenosis or aneurysm retreatment was achieved in 84.7% (95% CI, 78.6%-90.9%) of patients. Overall, 4.4% (8/182, 95% CI, 1.9%-8.5%) of patients experienced a primary safety end point of major ipsilateral stroke or neurological death.

CONCLUSIONS

In the ATLAS IDE anterior circulation aneurysm cohort premarket approval study, the Neuroform Atlas stent with adjunctive coiling met the primary end points and demonstrated high rates of long-term complete aneurysm occlusion at 12 months, with 100% technical success and <5% morbidity. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT02340585.

Stent-Assisted Coiling of Intracranial Aneurysms Using a Nitinol-Based Stent (Neuroform Atlas): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to synthesize the latest evidence on the efficacy and safety of Neuroform Atlas-assisted coiling of intracranial aneurysms.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search for articles that assessed the efficacy and safety of Neuroform Atlas-assisted coiling of intracranial aneurysms. The outcome measurement was adequate occlusion, defined as Raymond-Roy Class I (RR1) + Raymond-Roy Class II (RR2) by previous studies.

RESULTS

A total of 557 patients (568 aneurysms) from 13 studies were included. The rate of adequate occlusion after the procedure was 88% (83-94%, I²: 72.21%), and the rates of RR1 and RR2 were 68% (60-77%, I²: 81.87%) and 21% (15-27%, I²: 66.10%), respectively. The adequate occlusion rate at 6 months was 90% (81-99%, I²: 58.04%) and 93% (91-96%, I²: 0%) at the end of a mean of 9.03 ± 1.03 months of follow-up. Periprocedural complications occurred in 35 patients [5% (3-8%, I²: 21.28%)]. Subgroup analysis of unruptured aneurysms showed that the rates of adequate occlusion were 85% (78-93%), 90% (79-100%) (6-month follow-up), and 93% (90-96%) (at the end of follow-up). For the wide-necked aneurysm subgroup, the rate of adequate occlusion was 86% (80-93%) and was 93% (89-97%) at the end of follow-up. Meta-regression showed that initial adequate occlusion was influenced by mean aneurysm neck size (p = 0.034).

CONCLUSION

Neuroform Atlas-assisted coiling is associated with an initial adequate occlusion rate of 88% and a periprocedural complication rate of 6%. The rate of initial adequate occlusion was 85% in unruptured aneurysms and 86% in wide-necked aneurysms.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2, Systematic review of non-randomized and single-arm studies.

Stent-Assisted Coiling Using Leo+ Baby Stent : Immediate and Mid-Term Results

Background

Stent-assisted coiling is well-established for treatment of cerebral aneurysms. The technique enables treatment of wide-neck, bifurcation and recurrent aneurysms with high packing rates. While described in extenso for laser cut stents, the results of patients treated with the Leo+ Baby (Balt, Montmorency, France) braided microstent are presented.

Material and Methods

Patients were included if treated with a Leo+ Baby and with digital subtraction angiography (DSA) follow-up available of at least 6 months. Data were evaluated for successful deployment, aneurysm occlusion according to the modified Raymond-Roy classification (MRRC), stent patency and procedure-related morbidity and mortality.

Results

A total of 81 patients were included and Leo+ Baby deployment was successful in all cases. Coils were used in 80 cases. In 1 case 2 stents were used stent-in-stent without additional coiling. Initial aneurysm occlusion rates were MRRC_i1 51.9%, MRRC_i2 11.1%, MRRC_i3a 24.7% and MRRC_i3b 12.3%. Occlusion rates after 6 months were MRRC_6m1 78.9%, MRRC_6m2 3.9%, MRRC_6m3a 6.6% and MRRC_6m3b 10.5%. Procedure-related morbidity was 1 case of acute stent thrombosis successfully treated with tirofiban and 1 case with transient hemiparesis due to stent thrombosis after 4 months. There was 1 case of coil-associated subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) which caused prolonged hospitalization. No procedure-related mortality was observed.

Conclusion

The results confirm that stent-assisted coiling with the Leo+ Baby stent is safe and efficient for treatment of wide neck or recurrent cerebral aneurysms. Spontaneous progressive aneurysm occlusion over 6 months supports the theory of considerable flow-modulating effects of Leo+ Baby.

Coil Embolization of Wide-Neck Bifurcation Aneurysms via Shouldering and Framing: A Safe Alternative to Conventional Techniques

OBJECTIVE

Double stent-assisted coiling of wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms (WNBAs) can be technically challenging with high thromboembolic rates. Single stent-assisted coiling (SSAC) decreases procedural complexity and thromboembolic risk but increases risk of coil prolapse and recanalization. In this study, we present our institution's experience with SSAC of WNBA performed via a "shouldering" and "framing" with a single Atlas stent and a spherical 3-dimensional (3D) Stryker coil.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 35 patients who underwent SSAC of WNBA performed via a shouldering and framing with a single Atlas stent and a spherical 3D Stryker coil from 2018 to 2019. Data collection were performed on baseline demographics, clinical presentation, aneurysm characteristics, angiographic and functional outcomes, and perioperative and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Of 35 patients, the mean age was 59.9 ± 11.6 years and 25/35 (71.4%) were women. The mean aneurysm diameter was 6.3 ± 3.4 mm, the mean neck size was 3.9 ± 1.3 mm, and the mean dome-to-neck ratio was 1.5 ± 0.6. Initial complete/near-complete occlusion was demonstrated in 30/35 (85.7%) patients. On angiographic follow-up at a mean of 6 months, 9/24 (37.5%) patients showed progressive thrombosis, 13/24 (54.2%) showed stable occlusion, and 2/24 (8.5) showed recanalization. Thromboembolic events occurred in 2/35 (5.7%) patients, intraoperative technical complications occurred in 2/35 (5.7%) patients, and access-site complications occurred in 2/35 (5.7%) patients. The were no cases of retreatment, rehemorrhage, or procedural-related permanent morbidity or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Coil embolization performed via shouldering with a single Atlas stent and framing with a spherical 3D Stryker coil is a feasible, safe, and effective neuroendovascular treatment for WNBAs.

Stent-assisted Coil Embolization to Treat Extracranial Carotid Artery Aneurysm 13 Years after Endarterectomy: A Case Report

Development of extracranial carotid artery aneurysm (ECCA) after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a rare complication, occurring in connection with <1% of all CEAs. The main causes are infection, suture failure, and degeneration of arterial wall or patch. The traditional treatment has been operative repair, which can present a significant technical challenge owing to reoperative neck inflammation and potential cranial nerve injuries. Here, we report a case of successful stent-assisted coil embolization for right noninfectious ECCA. A 63-year-old female was admitted to our hospital for a 3-cm pulsating mass in her right midneck. Doppler examination and digital subtraction angiography revealed a large (15 mm) ECCA at the right common carotid artery (CCA). Thirteen years earlier, eversion CEA with patch angioplasty and abbreviation of the internal carotid artery (ICA) had been performed for a symptomatic 80% diameter stenosis with transient ischemic attack at another hospital. As the patient refused blood transfusion for religious reasons, we treated her with stent-assisted coil embolization, which achieved nearly complete obliteration of the aneurysm while preserving the parent artery patency. Three months after initial treatment, ultrasound revealed complete occlusion of the ECCA, but also showed stent shortening. Hence, we performed an additional stent placement so as to overlap the previous stent by 2.5 cm. Six months after initial treatment, carotid duplex ultrasound confirmed a good outcome. This procedure is an excellent choice for high-risk patients, and a larger case series is needed to establish this technique as the treatment of choice for ECCAs.

Y-Stent-Assisted Coiling With Low-Profile Neuroform Atlas Stents for Endovascular Treatment of Wide-Necked Complex Intracranial Bifurcation Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Y-stent-assisted coiling is one of the eligible techniques for the treatment of complex bifurcation aneurysms. In majority of previous literature, Y-stenting has been performed using stents that could be delivered through large profile microcatheters that are often difficult to manipulate during navigation through sharply angled side branches. Attempts to navigate with these large profile catheters might cause serious complications during Y-stenting procedure.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of Y-stent-assisted coiling procedure with Neuroform Atlas stents for the treatment of complex bifurcation aneurysms; Neuroform Atlas is a recently introduced open-cell stent that can be delivered though low-profile microcatheters.

METHODS

We identified the patients with intracranial bifurcation aneurysms treated by Y-stent-assisted coiling procedure with Neuroform Atlas stents. We assessed the immediate postoperative and follow-up clinical and angiographic outcomes. We also investigated the periprocedural and delayed complications.

RESULTS

A total of 30 aneurysms in 30 patients were included in the study. Y-stenting was successfully performed without any technical complications in all cases (100%). Immediate postprocedural angiography revealed total aneurysm occlusion in 83.3% of patients. The mean angiographic follow-up time was 11.8 mo. The last follow-ups showed complete occlusion in 93.3% of patients. There was no mortality in this study. A procedure-related complication developed in 6.7% and resulted in permanent morbidity in 3.3% of patients.

CONCLUSION

Neuroform Atlas stent combines the advantages of low-profile deployment microcatheters with an open-cell structure to achieve a successful Y-stenting procedure. Y-stent-assisted coiling with Neuroform Atlas stents provides a safe and effective endovascular treatment for wide-necked complex bifurcation aneurysms.

Double stent assisted coiling of intracranial bifurcation aneurysms in Y and X configurations with the Neuroform ATLAS stent: immediate and mid term angiographic and clinical follow-up

Purpose

Self-expandable stents have broadened the spectrum of endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms. However, procedures involving double stenting in Y/X configurations carry a relatively high risk of procedural complications. The Neuroform ATLAS, the evolution of Neuroform EZ, is a nitinol self-expanding hybrid/open cell stent which can be delivered through a low profile 0.017 inch catheter. We present our experience in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms with this stent in Y and X configurations.

Materials and methods

We prospectively maintained a database from consecutive patients who underwent double stent assisted coiling with the Neuroform ATLAS, from July 2015 to February 2019. Clinical and angiographic results were analyzed.

Results

55 patients harboring 55 bifurcation aneurysms were treated with double stenting: 52 ‘Y’ configurations, 3 ‘X’ configurations. Deployment was successful in all cases. Post-treatment control angiography showed complete occlusion in 33 cases (60%), neck remnant in 8 cases (14.5%), and incomplete occlusion in 14 cases (25.4%). The overall symptomatic periprocedural complication rate was 12.7%. 38 aneurysms underwent follow-up (69%, mean duration 16 months): 33 aneurysms (87%) were completely occluded, 3 aneurysms (8%) had a neck remnant, and 2 aneurysms (5%) were incompletely occluded.

Conclusion

The Neuroform ATLAS is an effective device for treatment of bifurcation aneurysms, allowing good conformability, a high level of navigability, and easy mesh crossing to perform Y/X stenting procedures. The rate of procedural complications remains non-negligible, and an indication for a double stenting procedure should be carefully discussed in a multidisciplinary meeting.

Aneurysms with persistent filling after failed treatment with the Pipeline embolization device

OBJECTIVE

The Pipeline embolization device (PED) has become a valuable tool in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms. Although failures with PED treatment have been reported, the characteristics and course of these aneurysms remain a topic of uncertainty.

METHODS

Electronic medical records and imaging studies were reviewed for all patients treated with the PED between July 2010 and March 2015 to identify characteristics of patients and aneurysms with residual filling after PED treatment.

RESULTS

Of 316 cases treated at a single institution, 281 patients had a long-term follow-up. A total of 52 (16.4%) aneurysms with residual filling were identified and constituted the study population. The mean patient age in this population was 58.8 years. The mean aneurysm size was 10.1 mm ± 7.15 mm. Twelve aneurysms were fusiform (23%). Of the aneurysms with residual filling, there were 20 carotid ophthalmic (CO) aneurysms (20% of all CO aneurysms treated), 10 other paraclinoid aneurysms (16.4% of all paraclinoid aneurysms), 7 posterior communicating artery (PCoA) aneurysms (21.9% of all PCoA aneurysms), 7 cavernous internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms (14.9% of all cavernous ICA aneurysms), 4 vertebrobasilar (VB) junction aneurysms (14.8% of all VB junction aneurysms), and 3 middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms (25% of all MCA aneurysms). Eleven patients underwent placement of more than one PED (21.2%), with a mean number of devices of 1.28 per case. Eight of 12 aneurysms were previously treated with a stent (15.4%). Nineteen patients underwent re-treatment (36.5%); the 33 patients who did not undergo re-treatment (63.5%) were monitored by angiography or noninvasive imaging. In multivariate analysis, age older than 65 years (OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.33-5.28; p = 0.05), prior stent placement across the target aneurysm (OR 2.94, 95% CI 1.15-7.51; p = 0.02), aneurysm location in the distal anterior circulation (MCA, PCoA, and anterior choroidal artery: OR 2.72, 95% CI 1.19-6.18; p = 0.017), and longer follow-up duration (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.03-1.09; p < 0.001) were associated with incomplete aneurysm occlusion.

CONCLUSIONS

While the PED can allow for treatment of large, broad-necked aneurysms with high efficacy, treatment failures do occur (16.4%). Aneurysm size, shape, and previous treatment may influence treatment outcome.

Initial and Long-Term Outcomes of Complex Bifurcation Aneurysms Treated by Y-Stent-Assisted Coiling with Low-Profile Braided Stents

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Coiling complex intracranial bifurcation aneurysms often necessitates the implantation of double stents in various configurations, such as Y-stent placement. Low-profile braided stents have been introduced recently to facilitate the endovascular treatment of wide-neck aneurysms. We aimed to investigate the feasibility, safety, efficacy, and durability of Y-stent-assisted coiling with double low-profile braided stents for the treatment of complex bifurcation aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was performed to identify patients who were treated using Y-stent-assisted coiling with low-profile braided stents. Technical success was assessed, as were initial and follow-up clinical and angiographic outcomes. Periprocedural and delayed complications were reviewed. Preprocedural and follow-up clinical statuses were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS

Forty patients with 40 intracranial aneurysms were included in the study. Y-stent placement was successfully performed in all cases. Immediate postprocedural digital subtraction angiography images revealed total aneurysm occlusion in 72.5% of cases. The mean angiographic follow-up time was 24.8 months. The last follow-up angiograms showed complete occlusion in 85% of patients. During follow-up, only 1 patient showed an increase in the filling status of the aneurysm and that patient did not require retreatment. There was no mortality in this study. The overall procedure-related complication rate, including asymptomatic complications, was 17.5%. A permanent morbidity developed in 1 patient (2.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

The long-term angiographic and clinical outcomes of this retrospective study demonstrate that Y-stent-assisted coiling using low-profile braided stents is an effective, relatively safe, and durable endovascular treatment for wide-neck and complex bifurcation aneurysms.

Endovascular Coiling for a Wide-neck Bifurcated Aneurysm with Anterograde Horizontal Stenting via Microcatheter Looping: A Technical Case Report

Technical advances with devices such as catheters, balloons, and stents have widened the indications for endovascular coiling for unfavorable aneurysms. The authors report two cases of coil embolization for a wide-neck bifurcated aneurysm with anterograde horizontal stenting via microcatheter looping. Two women, aged 56 and 38 years, respectively, had an undertall- and overwide-neck aneurysm with bifurcated branches at the basilar bifurcation and middle cerebral bifurcation, respectively. The delivery microcatheter was steamed so that it could be looped deliberately to the opposite vessel. The enterprise stent was first anchored to the vessel of the posterior cerebral artery on one side. The remaining portion was spanned into a looped microcatheter to the opposite branch while pushing the stent. The Neuroform Atlas stent was passed directly through the looped segment of the microcatheter at the M2 branch and spanned horizontally by unsheathing. Under horizontal stenting, complete coil embolization was achieved without immediate or delayed complications in both cases. This novel technique presents a viable option for stent-assisted coiling within an optimal anatomy.

Pipeline-assisted coiling versus pipeline in flow diversion treatment of intracranial aneurysms

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Flow-diversion therapy (FDT) for large and complex intracranial aneurysms is effective and considered superior to primary coil embolization. Data evaluating common treatment with both FDT and coiling continues to emerge, but information on outcomes remains scarce. This study aims to examine further the efficiency and outcomes correlated with joint FDT using pipeline embolization device (PED) and coiling compared to PED-alone in treating intracranial aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Comparative review and analysis of aneurysm treatment with PED in 416 subjects were conducted. Joint modality, PED, and coiling were compared to PED-alone for aneurysm occlusion, recurrence, retreatment, thromboembolic or hemorrhagic events, and functional outcome using the modified Rankin Scale. Data on patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, clinical and angiographic follow up, were also collected. Both univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression modeling using mixed-effects were performed.

RESULTS

Total of 437 aneurysms were treated using PED of which 74 were managed with both PED and coiling. Average patient-age was 56 years, the majority were men (85%), an average aneurysm size was 9 mm, and the majority were saccular aneurysms (84%). Larger aneurysm size was associated with a poor outcome in patients with unruptured aneurysms (OR = 1.06). Adjusted regression analyses revealed no differences between treatment groups in thromboembolic or hemorrhagic events, aneurysm occlusion rate, residual flow on follow up angiography, or functional outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of intracranial aneurysms with joint PED and coiling was safe with no increase in complications when compared to PED alone. Aneurysm occlusion rates and functional outcome with PED and coiling stays comparable to treatment with PED-alone.