pCONus Device for the Endovascular Treatment of Wide-Neck Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysms

Advancements in Brain Aneurysm Management: Integrating Neuroanatomy, Physiopathology, and Neurosurgical Techniques

Brain aneurysms, characterized by abnormal bulging in blood vessels, pose significant risks if ruptured, necessitating precise neuroanatomical knowledge and advanced neurosurgical techniques for effective management. This article delves into the intricate neuroanatomy relevant to brain aneurysms, including the vascular structures and critical regions involved. It provides a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology of aneurysm formation and progression. The discussion extends to modern neurosurgical approaches for treating brain aneurysms, such as microsurgical clipping, endovascular coiling, and flow diversion techniques. Emphasis is placed on preoperative planning, intraoperative navigation, and postoperative care, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. By integrating neuroanatomical insights with cutting-edge surgical practices, this article aims to enhance the understanding and treatment outcomes of brain aneurysms.

Trends in the Age of Patients Treated for Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms from 1990 to 2020

BACKGROUND

The decision for treatment for unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) is often difficult. Innovation in endovascular devices have improved the benefit-to-risk profile especially for elderly patients; however, the treatment guidelines from the past decade often recommend conservative management. It is unknown how these changes have affected the overall age of the patients selected for treatment. Herein, we aimed to study potential changes in the average age of the patients that are being treated over time.

METHODS

A systematic search of the literature was performed to identify all studies describing the age of the UIAs that were treated by any modality. Scatter diagrams with trend lines were used to plot the age of the patients treated over time and assess the presence of a potential significant trend via statistical correlation tests.

RESULTS

A total of 280 studies including 83,437 UIAs treated between 1987 and 2021 met all eligibility criteria and were entered in the analysis. Mean age of the patients was 55.5 years, and 70.7% were female. There was a significant increasing trend in the age of the treated patients over time (Spearman r: 0.250; P < 0.001), with a 1-year increase in the average age of the treated patients every 5 years since 1987.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicates that based on the treated UIA patient data published in the literature, older UIAs are being treated over time. This trend is likely driven by safer treatments while suggesting that re-evaluation of certain UIA treatment decision scores may be of great interest.

[Brain aneurysms treatment with pCONus2 device. Initial experience at IMSS]

Background

pCONus2 device has been used in some countries as coadyuvant in the treatment of wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms with coils.

Objective

To present the first series of brain aneurysms treated with pCONus2 in the Mexican Institute for Social Security (IMSS).

Material and methods

We retrospectively present the first 13 aneurysms treated from October 2019 to February 2022 with pCONus2 device at a third level hospital.

Results

6 aneurysms located at anterior communicating artery, 3 at middle cerebral artery bifurcation, 2 at internal carotid artery bifurcatión, and 2 at the tip of basilar artery were treated. Device deployment was performed without complications and it was possible to embolize aneurysms with coils in 12 patients (92%), while on an internal carotid bifurcation aneurysm (8%) there was an incident of a pCONus2 petal migration toward vascular lumen caused by coils mesh pressure, situation that was solved by placing an nitinol self-expandable microstent. In 7 cases (54%) we performed coiling technique after microcatheter passage through pCONus2, while in 6 cases (46%) we used the jailing technique without complications.

Conclusions

pCONus2 is a useful device for wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms embolization. In Mexico our experience is yet limited; however, the first cases have been successful. Furthermore, we showed the first cases treated using jailing technique. Much more cases are required in order to carry out a statistically conclusive analysis and to establish the effectiveness and safety of the device.

Results of the pToWin Study: Using the pCONUS Device for the Treatment of Wide-Neck Intracranial Aneurysms

Coil embolization has become a well-established option for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Yet, wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms (WNBAs) remain a challenge. The pCONUS is the first generation of a stent-like implant for the bridging of WNBAs to enable coiling. The pToWin study was a prospective, single-arm, multicenter study conducted to analyze the safety and efficacy of the pCONUS in the treatment of WNBAs. The primary effectiveness endpoint was the rate of adequate occlusion of the aneurysm at 3–6 and 7–12 months. The primary safety endpoint was the occurrence of major ipsilateral stroke or neurological death during the follow-up. A total of 115 patients were included. Aneurysm locations were the middle cerebral artery in 52 (45.2%), the anterior communicating artery in 35 (30.4%), the basilar artery in 23 (20%), the internal carotid artery terminus in three (2.6%), and the pericallosal artery in two (1.7%) patients. Treatment was successfully performed in all but one patient. The morbi-mortality rate was 1.9% and 2.3% at 3–6 and 7–12 months, respectively. Of the aneurysms, 75.0% and 65.6% showed adequate occlusion at 3–6 and 7–12 months, respectively. pCONUS offers a safe and reasonably effective treatment of WNBAs, demonstrated by acceptable adequate aneurysm occlusion and low rates of adverse neurologic events.

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.

pCONUS 2 and pCONUS 2-HPC for the treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms: Periprocedural, 6-month, and early 2-year follow-up outcomes

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

pCONUS 2 and pCONUS 2-HPC are novel neck-bridging devices designed to support endovascular coil occlusion of wide-necked intracranial bifurcation aneurysms. This study summarises periprocedural outcomes, 6-month, and early 2-year follow-up results following its introduction in an interventional neuroradiology centre.

MATERIALS/METHODS

This prospective, single-arm study assessed 20 aneurysms treated over a 40 month time period from time of procedure to 2 years post-procedure. Data collected included patient demographics, aneurysm features, and intraprocedural, 6-month, and 2-year post-procedural complications and angiographic features.

RESULTS

The mean age of the cohort was 59+-SD 7.7 years. 16 unruptured aneurysms were treated (pCONUS 2 13/16, pCONUS 2-HPC 3/16) and 4 ruptured aneurysms were treated with pCONUS 2-HPC. Unruptured cases received dual antiplatelet therapy pre- and post-procedure while ruptured cases received single antiplatelet therapy. 9/20 aneurysms were located at the MCA bifurcation and 7/20 at the basilar tip. The remaining 4 aneurysms were at various bifurcations in the anterior circulation. 11/20 were small (<10mm) and 9/20 were large (10-25mm). There was one periprocedural complication: a retroperitoneal bleed. There were no post-procedural intracranial complications or at 6-months follow-up. At 6 months, satisfactory occlusion was achieved in 94% of cases (15/16). There was one delayed death at 2-year follow-up from an unrelated cause.

CONCLUSION

pCONUS 2 and pCONUS 2-HPC have excellent short and medium-term safety profiles and clinical outcomes with no procedure-related mortality or morbidity and good occlusion rates at 6-month follow-up. The use of pCONUS 2-HPC with single antiplatelet therapy is feasible and did not cause any complications.

Endovascular embolization of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms with the use of pCONus device: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The following study aimed to summarize the overall safety and efficacy of the pCONus device in the treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Major electronic medical databases were thoroughly searched to identify relevant studies. Data regarding the type of included studies, type of aneurysm and its location, treatment results measured in Raymond-Roy Occlusion Class (RROC) and its complications, as well as patients' neurological outcome at the discharge were extracted from the eligible studies and included in the meta-analysis. The subgroup analyses dependent on the aneurysm rupture status were also conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 8 studies (198 patients with 200 aneurysms) were included in this meta-analysis. The most common localization of the treated aneurysms was the middle cerebral artery with its pooled prevalence estimate (PPE) of 44.5%. Immediately after the procedure, RROC I (complete obliteration of the aneurysm) was observed in 46.8%, RROC II in 32.9%, while RROC III (residual aneurysm) in 20.3% of the patients. In a short-term follow-up, PPE of RROC I was 55.0%, RROC II 29.0%, and RROC III 16.1%. The PPE of intraprocedural complications was 17.3%, the most frequent were thromboembolic events, which were observed in 12.1% of all procedures. Poor neurological outcome at the discharge was noted with PPE of 9.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness and safety of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysm treatment utilizing the pCONus device is moderate. There is still a need for a consensus regarding the effective antiplatelet regimen in furtherance of diminishing the rate of thromboembolic events.

Three-dimensional visualization of aneurysm wall calcification by cerebral angiography: Technical case report

BACKGROUND

We describe on a 57-year-old man with an incidental middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm in whom a preoperative standard three-dimensional rotational angiogram (3D-RA) was used to depict luminal morphology along with 3D density rendering to precisely locate aneurysm wall calcification.

METHODS

To detect aneurysm calcification, a native 3D rotational angiogram was acquired for calcium density visualization, followed by an intraarterial contrast-enhanced 3D rotational angiogram in the same location. Both data sets were postprocessed obtaining a 3D calcium volume rendering on a 3D-RA.

RESULTS

Depiction of both the MCA luminal aneurysm morphology as well as calcium-rich components in the aneurysm wall was valuable to determine treatment strategy towards surgery.

CONCLUSION

Imaging of luminal morphology and calcification within the same angiographic procedure allows for a plain and simple estimation of the degree and distribution of brain aneurysm wall calcification with limited amount of additional radiation dosage.

The pCONUS bifurcation aneurysm implants for endovascular treatment of adults with intracranial aneurysms: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The authors sought to assess the safety and early efficacy of the pCONUS Bifurcation Aneurysm Implants in a meaningful number of patients; we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis for the treatment of 203 intracranial aneurysms.

Methods

A literature search was performed by a reference librarian, and after screening nine case series were included in this analysis. We estimated from each study the cumulative incidence (event rate) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for each outcome. Event rates were pooled in a meta-analysis across studies using the random-effects model; descriptive statistics were reported when relevant.

Results

The pCONUS devices can be used with a technical success rate of 100% (95% CI: 0.98-1.00) and a technical complication rate of 0% (95% CI: 0.00-0.02). Perioperative morbidity and mortality rates were 7% (95% CI: 0.03-0.11) and 0% (95% CI: 0.00-0.01), respectively. Perioperative hemorrhage rate was 0% (95% CI: 0.00-0.02); rate of treatment-related long-term neurological deficit was 2% (95% CI: 0.00-0.06). The long-term complete occlusion rate was 60% (95% CI: 0.52-0.69) and retreatment rate was 14% (95% CI: 0.06-0.22).

Conclusions

The pCONUS devices are an additional tool for the treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms with high rates of technical success and sufficiently low rates of morbidity and mortality. Comparative studies with longer-term follow-up are needed to clarify the role of this device in the management of challenging aneurysms.

Neuroform Atlas stent deployment through the Barrel vascular reconstruction device for the treatment of a wide-necked acutely ruptured basilar aneurysm

BACKGROUND

The Barrel vascular reconstruction device is an electrolytically detachable laser-cut closed-cell stent used for neck reconstruction in wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms to support coiling without necessitating dual stent implantation. The purpose is to lower the metal-to-artery ratio and its inherent risk of thromboembolic complications of multiple stents.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 53-year-old woman presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage due to acutely ruptured basilar tip aneurysm underwent emergency endovascular embolization with the Barrel vascular reconstruction device. Since the stent did not cover the entire neck of the aneurysm, an Atlas stent was released in a Y configuration through the Barrel. The Neuroform Atlas correctly opened through the Barrel and allowed the complete exclusion of the aneurysm.

CONCLUSION

If necessary, releasing a Neuroform Atlas through a Barrel vascular reconstruction device is a feasible technique.

Repeating enlargement, recanalisations, and subarachnoid haemorrhages after middle cerebral artery aneurysm embolisation using pCONus stent and coils - a case report

Purpose

Large and wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms remain technically challenging to treat by the endovascular approach. Several endovascular strategies have been established in recent years for treating wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms, such as balloon-assisted coiling, stent-assisted coiling, waffle cone technique (WCT), and intrasaccular flow disruptors.

Case report

A 64-year-old woman was diagnosed with three intracranial aneurysms of the right and left middle cerebral artery and right internal carotid artery. She was qualified for endovascular treatment of the left middle cerebral artery (LMCA) aneurysm because it posed the greatest risk of rupture. Due to complicated morphology, a pCONus stent and coils were chosen for treatment. Three months later the right middle cerebral artery aneurysm was embolised and the woman was scheduled for second-stage treatment of the LMCA aneurysm. One week before the planned admission the woman was diagnosed with subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) in the region of the previously treated LMCA aneurysm, and the second-stage treatment was conducted with a good result. The woman was discharged in improved condition. Three months later the woman was once again admitted with SAH – an enlarged LMCA aneurysm was observed and immediate third-stage embolisation was performed, but due to complications of SAH the woman eventually died.

Conclusions

On the basis of the presented case we would like to emphasise the importance of sufficient initial coil packing and frequent control of neck region of the aneurysm for the long-term stability and safety after pCONus-assisted coiling of intracranial aneurysms.

Stents and Stent Mimickers in Endovascular Management of Wide-neck Intracranial Aneurysms

Subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a ruptured cerebral aneurysm is a disastrous event accounting for approximately 5%-15% of all stroke cases and has a high mortality rate. One of the major goals in the management of these patients is to prevent rebleeding by securing the aneurysm either surgically or by endovascular means. Endovascular treatment is considered the first line of treatment for intracranial aneurysms; however, wide-neck aneurysms (WNAs) are specifically difficult to treat by endovascular means due to the difficulty in achieving a stable coil mass inside the aneurysm sac. To overcome this problem, assisted endovascular treatment techniques and devices have evolved over the years. Amongst these, stent-assisted coiling (SAC) techniques provide a scaffold for coil embolization. The concept of the stent-assisted technique inspired creative pioneers to invent new tools like the PulseRider (Pulsar Vascular, Inc. CA, USA) and the pCONUS (Phenox GmbH, Germany), which are a great help in managing wide-neck and bifurcation aneurysms. The concept of stent within stents and its related hemodynamic effect has led to the novel development of flow diverters for reconstructing the arterial wall and correcting the hemodynamic disturbances. In this article, we review the stents and stent-like devices currently in practice for the endovascular management of wide-neck and branch intracranial aneurysms.

Current Status of the PulseRider in the Treatment of Bifurcation Aneurysms: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The PulseRider is an innovative stent-like device designed for the treatment of intracranial bifurcation aneurysms. The aim of this study was to assess the current evidence on safety and effectiveness of the PulseRider.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The following databases were searched: PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Scopus. The search strategy consisted of "pulserider," "bifurcation aneurysm," and "endovascular" in both AND and OR combinations. Studies included were original research articles in peer-reviewed journals. The manuscripts were thoroughly examined for study design, outcomes, and results.

RESULTS

Three studies were identified describing use of the PulseRider device in the treatment of 63 patients with 63 bifurcation aneurysms. We identified 2 multicenter case series and 1 single-arm clinical trial. The majority of aneurysms treated were located at the basilar tip (37, 58.7%). All devices were successfully deployed, and there were 5 intraoperative complications (7.9%), including 2 intraoperative aneurysm ruptures, 1 vessel dissection, and 2 thrombus formations. Immediate complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 61.9% (39/63) of cases and at the 6-month imaging follow-up, 66.7% (42/63) achieved complete aneurysm occlusion. One recanalization was reported in 1 of the multicenter case series within the 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The PulseRider is safe and probably effective for the treatment of intracranial bifurcation aneurysms, sometimes not amenable for stent-assisted coiling. However, current evidence is limited to a small sample and short follow-up. In addition, the device has not been compared with other treatment modalities.

Treatment of Wide-Necked Bifurcation Aneurysms : Initial Results with the pCANvas Neck Bridging Device

Background

Recently, numerous devices dedicated to the treatment of wide-necked aneurysms have become available. We present our initial experience with the pCANvas device and present the technical success rate, clinical outcome and immediate angiographic occlusion rates.

Objective

We sought to determine the efficacy of flow with the pCANvas for the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of our prospectively collected data to identify patients treated with the pCANvas device between February 2015 and February 2017. The patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, immediate and delayed clinical and radiographic follow-up data were recorded.

Results

We identified 17 patients (13 female) treated only with the pCANvas device. The average age of the patients was 60.5 ± 13.3 years (range 25–75 years). The average dome width was 7.6 ± 3.2 mm (range 3–15.8 mm), dome height 7.1 ± 3.2 mm (range 3–12.9 mm) and neck width 5.4 ± 3.2 (range 3–16.3 mm). The average aspect ratio was 1.5 ± 0.8 (range 0.6–3.7). At the end of the procedure 15 aneurysms continued complete filling of the aneurysm (Raymond Roy Classification[RRC] 3) with 2 aneurysms showing only filling of the neck of the aneurysm (RRC 2). Early follow-up angiography was available for 16 patients and at this stage 11 aneurysms showed persistent and complete filling of the aneurysm (RRC 3), 5 aneurysms showed complete occlusion of the aneurysm (RRC 1) and 7 aneurysms underwent repeat treatment with coiling.

Conclusion

The early results on the use of the pCANvas are promising; however, longer term follow-up and larger studies are required.

The Barrel vascular reconstruction device for endovascular coiling of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms: a multicenter, prospective, post-marketing study

Background and purpose

The Barrel vascular reconstruction device (Barrel VRD) is a novel stent with design features that allow endovascular coiling of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms while preserving adjacent branches, without necessitating dual stent implantation. This study aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of the Barrel VRD at 12-month follow-up.

Materials and methods

The Barrel VRD trial is a prospective, multicenter, observational post-marketing registry evaluating the use of the Barrel VRD for treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms. The primary effectiveness endpoint was successful aneurysm treatment measured by digital subtraction angiography with a Raymond–Roy occlusion grade of 1 or 2 in the absence of retreatment, parent artery stenosis (>50%), or target aneurysm rupture at 12 months. The primary safety endpoint was the absence of neurological death or major stroke at 12 months.

Results

Twenty patients were enrolled from December 2013 to December 2014. The device was implanted in 19 patients with 19 aneurysms (8 middle cerebral artery, 4 anterior communicating artery, 1 internal carotid artery terminus, 4 basilar artery aneurysms; mean dome height 5.7±1.91 mm; mean neck length 4.8±1.35 mm, mean dome-to-neck ratio 1.6±2.0). Coiling was performed in all cases. The primary effectiveness endpoint was achieved in 78.9% of subjects (15/19; 12 complete occlusions, 3 neck remnants), and the primary safety endpoint was 5.3% (1/19).

Conclusions

This prospective study demonstrates that the Barrel VRD device resulted in ~80% occlusion rates and ~5% rates of neurological complications at 1 year after endovascular treatment of wide-necked bifurcation intracranial aneurysms.

Registered clinical trial

NCT02125097;Results.

The second-generation eCLIPs Endovascular Clip System: initial experience

OBJECTIVE Treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms is associated with higher recanalization and complication rates; however, the most commonly used methods are not specifically designed to work in bifurcation lesions. To address these issues, the authors describe the evolution in the design and use of the eCLIPs (Endovascular Clip System) device, a novel hybrid stent-like assist device with flow diverter properties that was first described in 2008. METHODS A registry was established covering 13 international centers at which patients were treated with the second-generation eCLIPs device. Aneurysm morphology and rupture status, device neck coverage, coil retention, and procedural and late morbidity and mortality were recorded. For those patients who had undergone successful implantation more than 6 months earlier, the final imaging and clinical follow-up results and need for re-treatment were recorded. RESULTS Thirty-three patients were treated between June 2013 and September 2015. Twenty-five (76%) patients had successful placement of an eCLIPs device; 23 (92%) of these 25 patients had complete data. Eight cases of nondeployment occurred during the 1st year of use, consistent with a learning curve; no failures of deployment occurred thereafter. Two periprocedural transient ischemic attacks and 2 asymptomatic thrombotic events occurred. Twenty-one (91%) of 23 patients underwent follow-up at an average of 8 months (range 3-18 months); 9 (42.9%) of these 21 patients demonstrated an improvement in Raymond grade at follow-up; no cases of worsening Raymond grade were recorded, and 17 (81.0%) patients sustained a modified Raymond-Roy Classification class of I or II angiographic result at follow-up. Two delayed ruptures were recorded, both in previously coiled, symptomatic giant aneurysms where the device was used as a part of a salvage strategy. CONCLUSIONS The second-generation eCLIPs device is a viable treatment option for bifurcation aneurysms. The aneurysm occlusion rates in this initial clinical series are comparable to the initial experience with other bifurcation support devices.

Physiological remodeling of bifurcation aneurysms: preclinical results of the eCLIPs device

OBJECTIVE

Intracranial bifurcation aneurysms are complex lesions for which current therapy, including simple coiling, balloon- or stent-assisted coiling, coil retention, or intrasaccular devices, is inadequate. Thromboembolic complications due to a large burden of intraluminal metal, impedance of access to side branches, and a high recurrence rate, due largely to the unmitigated high-pressure flow into the aneurysm (water hammer effect), are among the limitations imposed by current therapy. The authors describe herein a novel device, eCLIPs, and its use in a preclinical laboratory study that suggests the device's design and functional features may overcome many of these limitations.

METHODS

A preclinical model of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms in rabbits was used to assess functional features and efficacy of aneurysm occlusion by the eCLIPs device.

RESULTS

The eCLIPs device, in bridging the aneurysm neck, allows coil retention, disrupts flow away from the aneurysm, leaves the main vessel and side branches unencumbered by intraluminal metal, and serves as a platform for endothelial growth across the neck, excluding the aneurysm from the circulation.

CONCLUSIONS

The eCLIPs device permits physiological remodeling of the bifurcation.

Un-re-sheath-able Misaligned pCONus Device: Case Report of a Unique Complication

pCONus is a stent like endovascular device which aids in retention of coils within wide necked bifurcation aneurysms. It is retrievable even after complete deployment and is detached electrolytically. pCONus aided coiling of wide necked bifurcation aneurysms has a high technical success rate and a good safety profile. Different complications have been described in literature with the usage of pCONus. This case report describes a yet unreported complication of un-re-sheath-ability of a misaligned deployed pCONus device.

Misaligned pCONus Device: Case Report of a Unique Complication

pCONus is a stent-like endovascular device which aids in retention of coils within wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms. It is retrievable even after complete deployment and is detached electrolytically. The pCONus aided coiling of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms has a high technical success rate and a good safety profile. Different complications have been described in literature with the usage of pCONus. This case report describes a unreported complication of inappropriately deployed pCONus device.

One-year Angiographic Results After pCONus Stent-Assisted Coiling of 40 Wide-Neck Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysms

BACKGROUND: Bifurcation middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms with wide neck are amenable to endovascular coiling with pCONus stent, a recent device dedicated to wide-neck bifurcation intracranial aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the 1-year angiographic follow-up of wide-neck MCA aneurysms treated with pCONus.

METHODS: Forty MCA aneurysms (mean dome size, 7.7 mm; mean neck size, 5.6 mm) coiled with pCONus were retrospectively evaluated. “Recanalization” was defined as worsening, and “progressive thrombosis” was defined as improvement on the Raymond scale.

RESULTS: Angiographic midterm (mean, 11.9 months; range, 3-20) follow-up was obtained in all aneurysms. Retreatment was performed in 9 aneurysms (22.5%) without clinical complications, and postoperative angiographic outcome included 2 complete occlusions and 7 neck remnants. Six aneurysms were followed after retreatment (mean, 8.8 months), and presented complete occlusion in 1 case, neck remnant in 4 cases, and aneurysm remnant in 1 case. Among the 31 aneurysms, follow-up showed complete occlusion in 67.7% (21/31), neck remnants in 29% (9/31), and aneurysm remnants in 3.3% (1/31). Adequate aneurysm occlusion (total occlusion and neck remnant) was obtained in 96.7% (30/31). Among these 31 aneurysms, improvement of the rate of occlusion was observed in 15 aneurysms (48.4%), and recurrence in 2 aneurysms (6.5%). There was no 1-year angiographic recurrence of 3- or 6-month totally occluded aneurysms.

CONCLUSION: pCONus stent allows a safe coiling of wide-neck MCA aneurysms usually considered as surgical with a low recanalization rate for those adequately occluded at 3 to 6 months. Angiographic results improve over time due to progressive aneurysm thrombosis in around 50% of cases.

Role of preliminary registry data in development of a clinical trial for an innovative device: a small but integral piece of a health policy initiative

Establishing a national health policy at a macro level involves the integration of a series of health initiatives across a spectrum of activities, including clinical care. Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of a new medical device ultimately evolves to testing in humans. The pathway to a formal prospective clinical trial includes a stepwise appreciation of pre-clinical data and detailed analysis of data obtained from preliminary registries, where information about appropriate patient selection and use of the device is obtained. Evaluation of procedural and follow-up efficacy and safety data in a preliminary series of cases, chosen to simulate published data, allows the design and conduct of clinical trials that are required to verify preliminary observations, closing the loop on one aspect of modifying health policy decisions.

Flow Diversion for the Treatment of MCA Bifurcation Aneurysms-A Single Centre Experience

Background

Intracranial aneurysms located at the bifurcation of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) can often be challenging for the neurointerventionalist. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of flow diverting stents (FDS) in the treatment of these aneurysms.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively reviewed our prospectively maintained database to collect information for all patients with unruptured saccular bifurcation MCA aneurysms treated with FDS between January 2010 and January 2016. In addition to demographic data, we recorded the location, aneurysm characteristics, previous treatments, number and type of FDS, complications, and clinical and angiographic follow-up.

Results

Our search identified 13 patients (7 males) with an average age of 61.7 years (47–74 years). All patients had a single bifurcation aneurysm of the MCA, and none of the aneurysms were acutely ruptured. The average fundus size of the saccular aneurysms was 3 mm (range 1.5–10 mm). Follow-up studies were available for 12 patients. Based on the most recent follow-up angiograms, six aneurysms (50%) were totally occluded; five aneurysms (41.7%) showed only a small remnant; and one aneurysm (8.3%) remained unchanged. One patient suffered from an ischemic stroke with resultant permanent hemiparesis (mRS 3). In another case, there was an in-stent thrombosis during the intervention, which resolved upon intra-arterial infusion of Eptifibatide (mRS 0). There were no intra-operative vessel or aneurysm ruptures and no mortalities. Angiography of the covered MCA branches showed no change in the caliber or flow of the vessel in six (50%), a reduction in caliber in five (41.7%), and a complete occlusion in one (8.3%). All caliber changes and occlusions of the vessels were asymptomatic.

Conclusion

In our series, 91.7% of treated MCA bifurcation aneurysms were either completely occluded or showed only a small remnant with a good safety profile. Flow diversion of MCA bifurcation aneurysms should be considered as an alternative treatment strategy when microsurgical clipping or alternative endovascular treatment options are not feasible.

PulseRider for Treatment of Wide-Neck Bifurcation Intracranial Aneurysms: 6-Month Results

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

PulseRider is a new endovascular stent dedicated to treat bifurcation intracranial aneurysms with a wide neck. Our purpose was to evaluate 6-month clinical and anatomic results of the device when used to facilitate endovascular coiling of wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms.

METHODS

Unruptured intracranial aneurysms coiled with PulseRider, in 6 European centers and 1 U.S. center, were retrospectively reviewed from June 2014 to October 2015. Immediate and 6-month results were evaluated independently by using the Raymond classification scale. Recanalization was defined as worsening, and progressive thrombosis was defined as improvement on the Raymond scale.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients (10 women, 9 men; mean age, 63 years) harboring 19 bifurcation aneurysms (mean dome size, 8.8 mm; mean neck size, 5.8 mm) were included. Immediate angiographic outcome showed 11 complete aneurysm occlusions, 6 neck remnants, and 2 residual aneurysms. Follow-up at 6 months, obtained in all patients, included 12 complete aneurysm occlusions (63.1%), 6 neck remnants (31.6%), and 1 residual aneurysm (5.3%). Adequate occlusion (defined as complete occlusion and neck remnant combined) was observed in 94.7%. Progressive thrombosis was observed in 2 cases (10.6%) and recanalization in 1 case (5.3%). There was no in-stent stenosis or jailed branch occlusion. No bleeding was observed during the follow-up period. Permanent morbidity rate was 5.3% (1/19), and the mortality rate was 0% at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The PulseRider allows endovascular treatment of wide-neck bifurcation intracranial aneurysms. Larger series are needed to confirm our preliminary results.

Combined use of a pCONus and a Solitaire stent: Report of two cases

Objective The aim of this study was to report our initial experience of the use of the pCONus neck protection device in conjunction with the Solitaire AB stent to assist in the endovascular management of complex intracranial aneurysms with arteries arising from both the neck and the dome of the aneurysm. Methods Two patients with unruptured aneurysms underwent elective endovascular management of their aneurysms, one arising from the middle cerebral artery bifurcation and one from the anterior communicating artery. Both aneurysms had vessels arising from the neck and dome of the aneurysm. We present the strategy involved to protect all the arterial branches and coil occlude the aneurysm, the angiographic appearances and clinical status of the patients. Results Both cases involved the combined use of a pCONus and Solitaire stent. The parent vessel and efferent branches were all preserved with exclusion of the aneurysm from the circulation. There were no intraoperative complications. One patient developed mild transient symptoms 24 hours post procedure, which had resolved completely on discharge. Conclusion The use of the pCONus in conjunction with the Solitaire stent is a useful combination when dealing with complex wide-necked aneurysms with arteries derived from the fundus of the aneurysm.

The pCONus Device in Treatment of Wide-necked Aneurysms : Technical and Midterm Clinical and Angiographic Results

PURPOSE

A variety of devices for treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms are emerging. Here we report our results using the new pCONus device with special emphasis on the morphological and anatomical requirements for successful implantation.

METHODS

In this study we treated 21 patients with 22 aneurysms by endovascular interventions. After providing informed consent, patients were included according to the following criteria: aneurysm dome to neck ratio <2 or neck diameter >4 mm. The primary end points for clinical safety were the absence of death, absence of major or minor stroke and absence of transient ischemic attack.

RESULTS

A total of 22 aneurysms in 21 patients were treated with pCONus-assisted coiling. In 19 patients harboring 20 aneurysms the implantation of the device was successful and these aneurysms showed an adequate occlusion after 6 months in 95 %. The complication rate was low (5 %) with one case of minor neurological stroke. Analysis of the data showed that the difference in aneurysm angulation between successful (mean 45°) and failed implantations (mean 71.5°) was highly significant.

CONCLUSION

Use of the pCONus device and coiling in wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms is safe and provides good occlusion rates but might be limited by the angulation between the aneurysm and the parent vessel.

Use of the pCONus as an adjunct to coil embolization of acutely ruptured aneurysms

Introduction

Coil embolization of ruptured aneurysms has become the standard treatment in many situations. However, certain aneurysm morphologies pose technical difficulties and may require the use of adjunctive devices.

Objective

To present our experience with the pCONus, a new neck bridging device, as an adjunct to coil embolization for acutely ruptured aneurysms and discuss the technical success, angiographic and clinical outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of our database of prospectively collected data to identify all patients who presented with acute subarachnoid hemorrhage that required adjunctive treatment with the pCONus in the acute stage. We searched the database between April 2011 and April 2016.

Results

21 patients were identified (13 male, 8 female) with an average age of 54.6 years (range 31–73). 8 aneurysms were located at the basilar artery tip, 7 at the anterior communicating artery, 4 at the middle cerebral artery bifurcation, 1 pericallosal, and 1 basilar fenestration. 61.8% patients achieved modified Raymond–Roy classification I or II at immediate angiography, with 75% of patients having completely occluded aneurysms or stable appearance at initial follow-up. There were no repeat aneurysmal ruptures and two device-related complications (no permanent morbidity). Four patients in our cohort died.

Conclusions

Use of the pCONus is safe and effective in patients with acutely ruptured aneurysms and carries a high rate of technical success.

PulseRider Stent-Assisted Coiling of Wide-Neck Bifurcation Aneurysms: Periprocedural Results in an International Series

The PulseRider is a novel endovascular device specifically designed to treat bifurcation intracranial aneurysms with wide necks. In an international series, we report the results of PulseRider stent-assisted coiling of 15 patients (9 women and 6 men; mean age, 62.6 years) with 15 unruptured wide-neck (median dome size, 8 mm; median neck size, 5 mm) bifurcation aneurysms. Failure of PulseRider treatment occurred in 1 case, and 1 intraprocedural thromboembolic complication was observed. There was no mortality or neurologic permanent morbidity at discharge and at 1 month. Immediate angiographic outcome showed 12 complete occlusions and 2 neck remnants. Follow-up at 6 months was available for 3 aneurysms and demonstrated 2 complete aneurysm occlusions and 1 growing neck remnant. In this small series of selected patients, PulseRider stent-assisted coiling of wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms was feasible with low procedural complication rates. Angiographic follow-up will be required to evaluate the efficacy of the PulseRider device.

Clinical and Anatomical Follow-up in Patients With Aneurysms Treated With the WEB Device: 1-Year Follow-up Report in the Cumulated Population of 2 Prospective, Multicenter Series (WEBCAST and French Observatory)

BACKGROUND

Flow disruption with WEB is an innovative endovascular approach for wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms. Initial series have shown a low complication rate with good efficacy.

OBJECTIVE

To report clinical and anatomical results of the WEB treatment in the cumulated population of WEBCAST (WEB Clinical Assessment of Intrasaccular Aneurysm) and French Observatory series.

METHODS

WEBCAST and French Observatory are single-arm, prospective, multicenter, Good Clinical Practice studies dedicated to the evaluation of WEB treatment. Ruptured and unruptured bifurcation aneurysms located in the basilar artery, middle cerebral artery, anterior communicating artery, and internal carotid artery terminus were included in both studies. Clinical data were independently evaluated. Postoperative, 6-month (in WEBCAST), and 1-year aneurysm occlusion was independently evaluated with a 3-grade scale: complete occlusion, neck remnant, and aneurysm remnant.

RESULTS

The cumulated population was 113 patients (74 female, 65.5%) 33 to 74 years of age with 114 aneurysms with a mean neck size of 5.6 mm. There was no mortality at 1 month, and morbidity was 2.7%. A statistically significant difference in the rate of occurrence of thromboembolic events was observed between the use of any antiplatelet agent and the use of no antiplatelet agent (P < .001). At 1 year, complete aneurysm occlusion was observed in 56.0%, neck remnant in 26.0%, and aneurysm remnant in 18.0%. Worsening of aneurysm occlusion between the procedure and 12 months was observed in 2.0% and between 6 months and 1 year in 7.1%.

CONCLUSION

The analysis in this large cumulated population of studies confirms favorable safety and efficacy of WEB treatment.

Single-center experience in the endovascular treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms with a bridging intra-/extra-aneurysm implant (pCONus)

Purpose

To retrospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of the endovascular treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms assisted by a novel intra-/extra-aneurysm stent-like implant (pCONus).

Methods

Initial and follow-up angiographic and clinical results are presented of 25 patients with 25 unruptured and ruptured wide-necked intracranial aneurysms treated by reconstruction of the aneurysm neck using the pCONus implant followed by coil occlusion of the fundus.

Results

Successful intra-/extra-aneurysm deployment of the pCONus with coil occlusion of the fundus was achieved in all but one case. Procedure-related ischemic complications were observed in three cases with permanent deterioration in one. Acceptable aneurysm occlusion was achieved in all cases. Follow-up angiography revealed sufficient occlusion in 81.0% of the aneurysms. Intimal hyperplasia in the stented segment of the parent artery or device migration has not been observed to date.

Conclusions

The pCONus device offers a promising treatment option for complex wide-necked bifurcation intracranial aneurysms. Acute or delayed dislocations of coils into the parent artery are successfully avoided.

One-Year Angiographic Follow-Up after WEB-SL Endovascular Treatment of Wide-Neck Bifurcation Intracranial Aneurysms

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Endovascular coiling of wide-neck intracranial aneurysms is associated with low rates of initial angiographic occlusion and high rates of recurrence. The WEB intrasaccular device has been developed specifically for this indication. To date, there has been no report of the long-term follow-up of a series of patients with aneurysms treated with this type of device, to our knowledge. Our aim was to evaluate a 1-year follow-up of angiographic results in a prospective single-center series of patients treated with the WEB-Single-Layer (SL) device.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients treated with the WEB-SL device in our center between August 2013 and May 2014 were prospectively included. One-year angiographic outcomes were assessed. Results at follow-up were graded as complete occlusion, neck remnant, or residual aneurysm.

RESULTS

Eight patients with 8 unruptured wide-neck aneurysms were enrolled in this study. Average dome width was 7.5 mm (range, 5.4-10.7 mm), and average neck size was 4.9 mm (range, 2.6-6.5 mm). One-year angiographic follow-up obtained in all aneurysms included 1 complete aneurysm occlusion (12.5%), 6 neck remnants (75%), and 1 aneurysm remnant (12.5%). Of 8 aneurysms, worsening of aneurysm occlusion was observed in 2 (25%) by compression of the WEB device. There was no angiographic recurrence of initially totally occluded aneurysms. No bleeding was observed during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular therapy of intracranial aneurysms with the WEB-SL device allows treatment of wide-neck aneurysms with a high rate of neck remnant at 1 year, at least partially explained by WEB compression. Initial size selection and technologic improvements could be an option for optimization of aneurysm occlusion in WEB-SL treatment.

Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms with the WEB Device: A Systematic Review of Clinical Outcomes

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Despite the improvement in technology, endovascular treatment of bifurcation intracranial wide-neck aneurysms remains challenging, mainly due to the difficulty of maintaining coils within the aneurysm sac without compromising the patency of bifurcation arteries. The Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device is a recent intrasaccular braided device specifically dedicated to treating such aneurysms with a wide neck by disrupting the flow in the aneurysmal neck and promoting progressive aneurysmal thrombosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using several health data bases, we conducted a systematic review of all published studies of WEB endovascular treatment in intracranial aneurysms from 2010 onward to evaluate its efficacy and safety profile.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 6 relevant studies (7 articles) including wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms in ≥80% of cases. Clinical data supporting the efficacy and safety of the WEB are limited to noncomparative cohort studies with large heterogeneity from a methodologic standpoint. The WEB deployment was feasible with a success rate of 93%-100%. Permanent morbidity (mRS of >1 at last follow-up) and mortality were measured at 2.2%-6.7% and 0%-17%, respectively. The adequate occlusion rate (total occlusion or neck remnant) varied between 65% and 85.4% at midterm follow-up (range, 3.3-27.4 months).

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular treatment of bifurcation wide-neck aneurysms with the WEB device is feasible and allows an acceptably adequate aneurysm occlusion rate; however, the rate of neck remnants is not negligible. The WEB device needs further clinical and anatomic evaluation with long-term prospective studies, especially of the risk of WEB compression. Prospective controlled studies should be encouraged.