Multiple overlapping stents as monotherapy in the treatment of ‘blister’ pseudoaneurysms arising from the supraclinoid internal carotid artery: a single institution series and review of the literature

Periprocedural management of ruptured blister aneurysms treated with pipeline flow diversion

Background

Blister aneurysms are high-risk intracranial vascular lesions. Definitive treatment of these lesions has been challenging. Severe disability or mortality rates are as high as 55% when these lesions are treated with open surgery. Recent data show that flow diversion is a safe and effective alternative treatment for blister aneurysms. Rerupture of the functionally unsecured lesion remains a concern as flow diversion does not immediately exclude the aneurysm from the circulation.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of any patients with ruptured blister aneurysms treated with a pipeline embolization device between 2010 and 2020 at the University of Colorado.

Results

In this paper, we present the results of the intensive care management of ruptured intracranial blister aneurysms after flow-diverting stent placement.

Conclusion

Despite the need for dual antiplatelet therapy and the delayed occlusion of blister aneurysms treated with flow diversion, we did not find an increase in periprocedural complications.

Overlapping Stent Treatment for Ruptured Dissecting Aneurysms in Posterior Circulation

Ruptured dissecting aneurysms in posterior intracranial circulation present significant clinical challenges and often cause poor prognoses. Our cohort used overlapping stents as the primary treatment. We analyzed the medical records of 27 patients (18 men/nine women) with ruptured posterior circulation dissecting aneurysms (PCDAs). Their average age was 52 years. We selected 11 patients who used Enterprise (EP) and LVIS stents overlappingly and matched them 1:1 with counterparts who received either EP or LVIS stents individually. Overlapping stents was a feasible treatment in all 27 cases. We successfully followed up 26 patients for ≥6 months. Regrettably, one patient died from intracranial hypertension on Day 7 post-procedure. Immediate post-procedure angiographies indicated Raymond grade I, II, and III occlusions of PCDAs in 16 (59.3%), 7 (25.9%), and 4 (14.8%) cases, respectively. At an average follow-up duration of 16.2 months, 25 patients (96.2%) had modified Rankin Scale scores of 0-2, signifying positive outcomes. One patient (3.8%) had a score of 3-4. Recurrence rates for the EP and LVIS stent groups were higher than those of the overlapping stent group (45.45% vs. 9.09%, p = 0.15 and 27.27% vs. 9.09%, p = 0.59, respectively). No significant difference in recurrence rates existed between the overlapping and single-stent groups. Similarly, follow-up outcomes were consistent between the two groups. Overlapping stents could be an efficient method for treating ruptured PCDAs.

Case Series of Endovascular Therapy for Blood Blister-Like Aneurysm in Acute Phase

Objective

Blood blister-like aneurysms (BBAs) of the internal carotid artery are highly challenging to treat due to their variable morphology and tendency for rupture and regrowth. Here, we report a single-institution experience of endovascular therapy (EVT) for BBA treatment.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients with ruptured BBA from 2006 to 2019. All patients in whom BBA was treated with EVT were included. Patients' aneurysmal characteristics, progression status, aneurysm occlusion on follow-up angiography, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score were recorded.

Results

A total of 11 patients (5 women and 6 men) with the mean age of 46 ± 10 years were included in this study. As initial treatment, 9 patients were treated with stent-assisted coiling (SAC). Immediate angiographic results showed that 2 cases were body filling, 4 were neck remnant, and 3 were complete obliteration. Perioperative ischemic complications were not observed. On postoperative day 1, 2 patients suffered from rerupture, and their prognoses were poor. Retreatments were performed in 5 patients. Parent artery occlusion (PAO) was performed in 6 patients including 2 initial treatments and 4 retreatments. Symptomatic infarction developed in 2 patients. In 3 patients, bypass in combination with PAO was performed. Clinical data revealed discharge mRS scores of 0-2 and 3-6 in 4 and 7 patients, respectively.

Conclusion

SAC is effective for the management of BBA. Careful follow-up and response are necessary after treatment with SAC.

Overlapping stents-assisted coiling for vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm: LVIS stent within Neuroform EZ stent

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Blister-like aneurysm of the anterior communicating artery treated with only Low-profile Visualized Intraluminal Support Junior stent

Background:

Endovascular treatment is becoming a mainstream treatment for blister-like aneurysms in recent years. Blister-like aneurysms are usually located in the internal carotid artery, whereas that of the anterior communicating artery (AcomA) are very rare. We report the first case of blister-like aneurysm of AcomA that was treated solely with a neck bridging stent that resulted in complete occlusion without complication.

Case Description:

A 50- year- old woman was admitted to our hospital due to a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Digital subtraction angiography showed a very small aneurysm in the dorsal side of the AcomA. We considered it a blister-like aneurysm based on its size and shape. She underwent endovascular treatment under general anesthesia on day 15 after vasospasm period. Dual antiplatelet therapy was administrated 1 week prior. A Low-profile Visualized Intraluminal Support Junior stent was implanted from the left A2 to the right A1, covering the AcomA. The postoperative course was uneventful, and she was discharged with no neurological deficit. The aneurysm remained unchanged on postoperative day 14; however, complete occlusion was achieved 3 months after the treatment.

Conclusion:

Monotherapy with a neck bridging stent is an effective treatment option for blister-like aneurysms. Treatment with a single stent could achieve complete occlusion especially if the aneurysms occur elsewhere than the internal carotid artery. We should consider immediate additional treatment if the aneurysm grows within 1 month after initial treatment.

Application of the Willis covered stent in the treatment of internal carotid artery blood blister-like aneurysms

The optimal treatment for blood blister-like aneurysm (BBA) has not yet been determined, and BBA has a high recurrence rate after stent-assisted embolization. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of patients with BBA rupture in the acute phase or patients with BBA who have recurrence after stent-assisted coil embolization. Eight patients (8 women, mean age 50.3 ± 3.7 years) who presented with ruptured BBA or recurrence BBA that had been treated by stent-assisted embolization (5 patients after primary treatment of stent-assisted embolization) were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical follow-up was performed at 1 year after endovascular treatment. All patients were successfully treated with the WCS, and immediate postoperative angiography showed that the aneurysms were completely isolated. The ophthalmic artery was covered by WCS in one patient; however, this patient did not show any clinical visual field or vision symptoms. Procedure-related complications such as aneurysm rupture, vasospasm, acute thrombosis, or thromboembolism did not occur in any case. All patients were followed up for 1 year after endovascular treatment, and they were in good condition without recurrence. One patient developed delayed bleeding at the right temporal lobe. All patients had good clinical prognosis (modified Rankin Scale score ≤ 2). WCS implantation may be a safe and feasible strategy for patients with BBA rupture in the acute phase and patients with BBA who have recurrence after stent-assisted coil embolization and is a promising option worth exploring.

Cerebral vasospasm resulted in "stent shortening" after pipeline assisted coil embolization for blood blister aneurysms

Blood blister aneurysms (BBAs) are intracranial arterial lesions appearing in nonbranching sites of the supraclinoid internal carotid artery as well as the basilar artery. Endovascular treatment of BBAs is still not well established because of the rarity of these lesions. We report incidences of BBAs with associated vasospasms. Treatment of the BBAs and associate vasospasms with single Pipeline Flex embolization device (PLED) assisted coiling resulted in seemly shorting of the PLEDs in 3 patients.A retrospective analysis of patients with BBAs who were treated with single PLED assisted coiling from July 2018 to October 2019 was conducted. Patients' ethnic and medical records, aneurysmal characteristics, intraoperative-rupture, cerebral vasospasm (CVS), postprocedure contrast filling, follow-up imaging, and results were analyzed. Neurological examination at baseline and outcome based on modified Rankin scale (mRS) at discharge as well as follow-ups were also documented.Six patients consisting of 5 females and 1 male, with a mean age of 48.3 years (range from 34-67) were identified during our analysis. All the BBAs were located in nonbranching site of supra-clinoidal segment of internal carotid artery with a mean neck width of 4.5 mm and mean aneurysm size of 4.23 mm. PLED assisted coiling's were performed in all of them. CVS was observed in 3 patients while 1 patient had an intraoperative-rupture of the BBA. Postprocedure contrast filling was still present in 1 patient. All the patients had good outcomes with discharge and follow-up mRS scores ≤ 2 except 1 patient with mRS score = 3 with aphasia.PLED assisted endovascular coiling is very safe and efficient in treating patients with BBAs. Resolution of CVSs after treatment made the PLEDs seemly shorter. Furthermore, a combination of arterial lengthening after gaining their tensile strength back and radical expansion of the PLED could account for the shortening.

Comparison of Blister Aneurysm Treatment Techniques: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Blood blister aneurysms are small, thin-walled, rapidly growing side-wall aneurysms that have proved particularly difficult to treat, and evidence-based guidance for treatment strategies is lacking. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to aggregate the available data and compare the 3 primary treatment modalities.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive literature search according to PRISMA guidelines followed by an indirect meta-analysis that compares the safety and efficacy of surgical, flow-diverting stents (FDS), and other endovascular approaches for the treatment of ruptured blood blister aneurysms.

RESULTS

A total of 102 studies were included for quantitative synthesis, with sample sizes of 687 treated surgically, 704 treated endovascularly without FDS, and 125 treated via flow diversion. Comparatively, FDS achieved significantly reduced rates of perioperative retreatment compared with both surgical (P = 0.025) and non-FDS endovascular (P < 0.001). The FDS subgroup also achieved a significantly lower incidence of perioperative rebleed (P < 0.001), perioperative hydrocephalus (P = 0.012), postoperative infarction (P = 0.002), postoperative hydrocephalus (P < 0.001), and postoperative vasospasm (P = 0.002) compared with those patients in the open surgical subgroup. Although no significant differences were found among groups on the basis of functional outcomes, angiographic outcomes detailed by rates of radiographic complete occlusion were highest for surgical (90.7%, 262/289) and FDS (89.1%, 98/110) subgroups versus the non-FDS endovascular subgroup (82.7%, 268/324).

CONCLUSIONS

Flow diversion seems to be an effective treatment strategy for ruptured blood blister aneurysms, with lower rates of perioperative complications compared with surgical and other endovascular techniques, but studies investigating long-term outcomes after flow diversion warrant further study.

Internal Carotid Artery Blister Aneurysm: Review of Endovascular Techniques

Cerebral blister aneurysms are very difficult vascular lesions in terms of accurate diagnosis as well as proper management strategy for vascular neurosurgeons and neurointerventionists. Histopathological analysis has revealed their nature to be more akin to pseudoaneurysms in comparison to the typical berry aneurysms. This explains their fragile nature, with high probability of rerupture and regrowth during the follow-up if not addressed properly. Even though surgical approaches have evolved over the years to minimize intraprocedural rupture and recurrence, they still have relatively high morbidity as well as mortality in comparison to endovascular treatment. Over the last few years, endovascular treatment has evolved significantly, with introduction of new devices and techniques. Focus of the endovascular management has shifted from the deconstructive techniques to reconstructive ones with parent artery preservation. Recent introduction of flow diverter technology has enabled neurointerventionists to manage these difficult lesions with more confidence in terms of avoiding rerupture and recurrence. Flow diverter (FD) use in blister aneurysm resulted in high-technical success, complete aneurysm occlusion, and less complications in comparison to other reconstructive techniques like simple coiling, stent assisted coiling, and overlapping/monotherapy stent placement. Few debatable issues like use of dual antiplatelets in the setting of acute subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), timing of drugs in relation to procedures, single/overlapping devices, and concerns during cerebral vasospasm phase need further detailed analysis and standardized protocols. In this article, we have done a review of different endovascular treatment options in the management of internal carotid artery blister aneurysms with special focus on FD and issues related to it.

Stent-Assisted Coil Embolization of Ruptured Blood Blister-Like Aneurysm of the Basilar Artery: A Case Report and Literature Review

Objective

Blood blister-like aneurysms (BBA) often develop on the anterior wall of the internal carotid artery, and few cases have been reported at other sites. We report a case of stent-assisted coil embolization in the acute phase for a ruptured BBA of the basilar artery.

Case Presentation

A 53-year-old woman underwent emergency stent-assisted coil embolization for subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a ruptured BBA in the main trunk of the basilar artery. Seven months after the operation, cerebral angiography confirmed no recurrence and a good clinical course.

Conclusion

Stent-assisted coil embolization for BBA may be one treatment option.

Endovascular Treatment of Ruptured Intracranial Blister Aneurysms: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Endovascular treatment of blister aneurysms is a promising approach, even though they are vascular lesions challenging to treat due to their angioarchitectural characteristics.

PURPOSE

Our aim was to investigate clinical and radiologic outcomes after endovascular treatment of ruptured blister aneurysms.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Scopus, and the Web of Science were screened.

STUDY SELECTION

We performed a comprehensive review of the literature from 2010 to 2019 reporting series of patients with blister aneurysms treated with an endovascular approach.

DATA ANALYSIS

Event rates were pooled across studies using a random effects meta-analysis.

DATA SYNTHESIS

A total of 32 studies reporting on 684 patients (707 aneurysms) were included. Stent placement, stent-assisted coiling, and flow diversion were the most commonly described treatments (282, 256, and 155 patients, respectively). The long-term complete occlusion rate was 76.9% (95% CI, 69.2%-83.9%). The perioperative complication rate was 8.9%, and clinical outcome at final follow-up was mRS <2 in 76.6% (95% CI, 68.2%-84.2%) of patients. The mortality rate was 4.7% (95% CI, 2.30%-7.80%). Among the different techniques, stent-assisted coiling is the one that had the higher rate of immediate occlusion (63.4%); however, the occlusion rate at the final follow-up was comparable among the different techniques.

LIMITATIONS

Different techniques were described and data were reported in a nonhomogeneous way, possibly representing a bias in the present study.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that endovascular treatment of blister aneurysms is associated with good long-term occlusion rates and reasonable complication and mortality rates. There is no consensus on the best endovascular techniques in blister aneurysm management.

The role of EC-IC bypass in ICA blood blister aneurysms-a systematic review

To perform a systematic review of extracranial-to-intracranial (EC-IC) bypass surgery with parent vessel trapping for blood blister–like aneurysms (BBAs) of the internal carotid artery (ICA) according to PRISMA guidelines. Search of PubMed using “bypass” [all fields] and “ICA” [all fields] or “internal carotid artery” [all fields] and (“blood blister–like aneurysm” [MeSH terms]. Thirty-four original articles were identified, of which 21 were excluded (treatment not including bypass or insufficient details on complications or clinical outcomes). Thirteen articles published between 2008 and 2019 were included, totaling 98 patients, with a median of 7.5 patients per article (range 1–17). Mean age was 53.3 years (range 23–80). The main techniques were external carotid artery to middle cerebral artery (ECA-MCA) in 81% and superficial temporal artery to MCA (STA-MCA) in 19%. The most common grafts were radial artery (74%) and STA (19%). The risk of intraoperative rupture varied from 0 to 75%, with a mean of 12%. With respect to clinical outcomes, the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) was not stated in 30% of the cases. When stated, mRS was ≤ 2 in 79%, mRS was 3–5 in 10%, and 4% had mRS 6 (death). We identified only 13 articles, with no prospective studies. Outcomes were better than generally reported for ruptured aneurysms, both with respect to poor outcome (mRS > 2) and in-hospital mortality, perhaps reflecting a selection bias. In general, the data reporting quality was low, precluding any firm conclusions, but EC-IC bypass with ICA trapping may be a valid treatment option for ruptured ICA BBAs.

Using overlapping low-profile visualized intraluminal support stent-assisted coil embolization for treating blood blister-like aneurysms of the internal carotid artery

Blood blister-like aneurysm (BBA) of the internal carotid artery (ICA) is highly challenging to treat owing to its variable morphology and tendency for rupture and regrowth. In this study, we attempted to discuss the key techniques for overlapping low-profile visualized intraluminal support (LVIS) stent-assisted coil embolization, which is used for treating BBAs in our center. Clinical characteristics, endovascular treatment details, outcomes, and follow-up results of 13 patients with BBA treated at our center were retrospectively evaluated in this study. Overlapping LVIS stent-assisted coil embolization was successfully performed in all 13 patients of ruptured BBAs located in the ICAs. Recurrence of aneurysm was observed in 4 cases (30.8%) during the angiographic follow-up; in 2 of these cases, spontaneous healing was observed after discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy. Further, 2 patients with recurrence underwent endovascular treatment with complete obliteration of the aneurysm in one and occlusion of the parent artery after Onyx embolization and stent placement in the other. The overall obliteration rate of the BBAs was 92.3% (12/13). One patient (7.7%) developed intraoperative rupture of the aneurysm with coils protruding outside; however, no severe hemorrhage or neurological dysfunction occurred owing to timely embolization. Overlapping LVIS stent-assisted coil embolization is effective for management of BBA of the ICA. Appropriate adjustment in antiplatelet therapy may improve healing in recurrent cases.

Clinical utility and versatility of the petrous segment of the internal carotid artery in revascularization

Direct approaches to high cervical lesions, including tumors and aneurysms, carry significant risks. This renders alternative approaches desirable, with vascular disease amenable to exclusion and revascularization to the intracranial circulation, including the petrous or supraclinoid segments of the internal carotid artery (ICA). The cervicopetrous ICA bypass via saphenous venous grafting has proven an effective strategy for treating and excluding these lesions. In current practice, this is performed via an extradural subtemporal approach to access the petrous segment of the ICA and a cervical incision for access to the cervical ICA. The venous graft is alternately tunneled subcutaneously or in situ through the cervical ICA, with the latter eschewing external compression, kinking, and torsion, which increases risk of graft thrombosis with the former. Maxillary or middle meningeal arteries may also serve as donors to the petrous ICA. Moreover, the petrous ICA may be used as a donor in revascularization procedures, to the supraclinoid segment of the ICA and the middle cerebral artery, with petrous supraclinoid and petrous-MCA bypasses described. Clinical utility and operative approaches bypassing to or from the petrous ICA in revascularization procedures are reviewed and discussed.

A Patient with a Ruptured Blood Blister-like Aneurysm of the Internal Carotid Artery in Whom Two LVIS Stents Were Inserted

Objective

We report a case in which multiple overlapping low-profile visualized intraluminal support (LVIS) stents were used as monotherapy for ruptured blood blister-like aneurysm (BBA) of the internal carotid artery (ICA).

Case Presentation

A 48-year-old female presented to the emergency room with acute-onset headache. She was alert without neurological deficit with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) Hunt and Kosnik grade I. Emergency angiography revealed a BBA from the supraclinoid ICA. This aneurysm had a small diameter, which makes coil embolization difficult. Therefore, we planned to use multiple overlapping LVIS stents as monotherapy for the ruptured aneurysm. The postoperative course was uneventful without rebleeding. The patient exhibited no neurological deficits on the clinical follow-up at 1 year.

Conclusion

Multiple overlapping LVIS stents as monotherapy is useful for ruptured BBAs of the ICA.

Single-center experience with the new generation Derivo Embolization Device in ruptured dissecting and blister aneurysms

Background

Treatment of ruptured dissecting and blister aneurysms is technically challenging with potentially high morbidity and mortality. The Derivo Embolisation Device (Derivo) is a flow diverter stent designed for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms.

Purpose

To assess the safety and feasibility of the Derivo in the treatment of ruptured dissecting and blister aneurysms.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all patients with ruptured dissecting and blister aneurysms treated with the Derivo between February 2016 and July 2018. Procedural details, complications, morbidity within 30 days, and angiographic aneurysm occlusion rates, initially and after six months, were assessed.

Results

In 10 patients 11 ruptured dissecting and blister aneurysms were treated with 12 Derivos as monotherapy. No aneurysm rebleeding was observed at follow-up. One treatment-related complication occurred including a coil perforation of an additionally treated aneurysm. One patient died due to brain edema. Initial digital subtraction angiography revealed complete (O’Kelly–Marotta [OKM] classification D) and favorable (OKM D+C) occlusion rate in three aneurysms. Six-month follow-up for digital subtraction angiography and clinical evaluation was available in 6/9 patients with complete (OKM D) occlusion in all aneurysms (6/6). Favorable (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] ≤ 2) and moderate (mRS 3) clinical outcome after a mean follow-up of 10 months was observed in six and two patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Endovascular treatment with the Derivo in ruptured dissecting and blister aneurysms revealed a sufficient initial division of aneurysms from the circulation without rebleeding. The Derivo is associated with high procedural and clinical short-term safety.

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.

Endovascular treatment of intracranial 'blister' and dissecting aneurysms

INTRODUCTION

Blister and dissecting aneurysms may have a different pathological background but they are commonly defined by instability of the vessel wall and bear a high risk of fatal rupture and rerupture. Lack of aneurysm sack makes treatment challenging.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and feasibility of endovascular treatment of intracranial blister and dissecting aneurysms.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed all patients with ruptured and unruptured blister and dissecting aneurysms treated endovascularly between 2004-2018. Procedural details, complications, morbidity/mortality, clinical favourable outcome (modified Rankin Scale ≤2) and aneurysm occlusion rates were assessed.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients with endovascular treatment of 35 aneurysms (26 dissecting aneurysms and 9 blister aneurysms) were included. Five aneurysms were treated by parent vessel occlusion, and 30 aneurysms were treated by vessel reconstruction using stent monotherapy (n = 9), stent-assisted coiling (n = 7), flow diverting stents (n = 13) and coiling + Onyx embolization (n = 1). No aneurysm rebleeding and no procedure-related major complications or deaths occurred. There were five deaths in consequence of initial subarachnoid haemorrhage. Complete occlusion (79.2%) was detected in 19/24 aneurysms available for angiographic follow-up, and aneurysm recurrence in 2/24 (8.3%). The modified Rankin Scale ≤2 rate at mean follow-up of 15.1 months was 64.7%.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of blister and dissecting aneurysms developed from coil embolization to flow diversion with multiple stents to the usage of flow diverting stents. Results using modern flow diverting stents encourage us to effectively treat this aneurysm entity endovascularly by vessel reconstruction. Therefore, we recommend preference of vessel reconstructive techniques to parent vessel occlusion.

Outcome of a Blood Blister-Like Aneurysm Treated by Clip-Reinforced Wrapping Technique Using Y-Shaped Temporalis Fascia for Perforator Protection

BACKGROUND

The optimal approach of blood blister-like aneurysms (BBAs) is debated. Wrapping has been reported to be an effective strategy, but artificial materials have often been used. In addition, perforator protection is difficult using this technique. In this case, we report a ruptured BBA of the left internal carotid artery (ICA) treated with a clip-reinforced wrapping technique using Y-shaped autologous temporalis fascia to protect the posterior communicating artery (PComA). The outcome was favorable.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 48-year-old woman was admitted for subarachnoid hemorrhage. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) revealed a BBA located opposite the PComA origin. A frontotemporal craniotomy was performed. The temporalis fascia was isolated from the temporalis muscle, and then tailored into a Y shape for the PComA to pass through. The diseased segment and the BBA were then wrapped by the Y-shaped temporalis fascia circumferentially. Two clips were applied to the fascia to reinforce the wrapping to fit snugly enough around the parent artery subsequently. DSA and computed tomography angiography scan postoperation showed that the BBA had not recurred, the supraclinoid segment of the left ICA had reconstructed well, and the PComA was unobstructed. The patient recovered without any sequelae during the 1-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

A clip-reinforced wrapping technique using Y-shaped temporalis fascia may be an effective method for treating BBAs located opposite the PComA origin. Long-term follow-up and large sample size studies, however, are necessary to validate this approach.

Coil and Single-Stent Placement for Ruptured Dissecting Aneurysm of Middle Cerebral Artery: A Case Report

BACKGROUND

Ruptured dissecting aneurysms located at the middle cerebral artery (MCA) are rare, and their standard treatment has not been defined. Furthermore, lenticulostriate artery involvement in the dissecting segment makes treatment extremely difficult, and no previous reports have described successful treatment for such conditions.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We herein report the case of a 74-year-old woman who presented with sudden severe headache from subarachnoid hemorrhage due to dissection in the proximal M1 segment of left MCA involving lenticulostriate arteries. Digital subtraction angiography on day 6 showed that the dissecting aneurysm had enlarged despite strict blood pressure control. On day 8, the patient was treated successfully with a self-expanding closed cell stent and coil embolization, preserving blood flow in the lenticulostriate arteries as well as the MCA.

CONCLUSIONS

Follow-up digital subtraction angiography performed 5 weeks after endovascular therapy showed healing of the dissecting lesion, and the patient was discharged neurologically intact.

Treatment of ruptured blood blister aneurysms using primary flow-diverter stenting with considerations for adjunctive coiling: A single-centre experience and literature review

Objective The objective of this article is to conduct a single-centre evaluation and quick literature review of the effectiveness of primary flow-diverter (FD) treatment of ruptured blood blister aneurysms (BBAs), with additional relevance of adjunctive coiling. Methods Patients presenting with subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) due to ruptured BBAs and subsequently treated with FDs were retrospectively selected from June 2010 to January 2017. Treatment techniques, angiographic data on occlusion rates and procedural success as well as clinical outcomes using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) were collated. Cross-reference of results were made with available literature. Results Thirteen patients harbouring 14 BBAs were recruited. Of the 14 aneurysms, five (35.7%) showed immediate complete occlusion after the procedure (four of these five patients had adjunctive coiling). All of the aneurysms showed complete occlusion by the six- to nine-month control diagnostic angiogram. No rebleed or retreatment was experienced. Twelve of 13 (92%) patients had an mRS score of 0-1 at the last clinical follow-up. From the pooled data of the literature review, eventual aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 48/56 patients, with five patients requiring further endovascular treatment. In the clinical follow-up period, an mRS of 0-2 was recorded for 83.3% (45/54) of patients. Conclusion Endovascular reconstruction of BBAs using FD treatment is an effective method with good final clinical outcomes. Adjunctive use of coiling achieves higher incidence of immediate complete occlusion of BBAs.

Endovascular treatment of blister aneurysms

Blister aneurysms are rare cerebrovascular lesions for which the treatment methods are reviewed here, with a focus on endovascular options. The reported pathogenesis of blister aneurysms varies, and hemodynamic stress, arterial dissection, and arteriosclerotic ulceration have all been described. There is consensus on the excessive fragility of blister aneurysms and their parent vessels, which makes clipping technically difficult. Open surgical treatment is associated with high rates of complications, morbidity, and mortality; endovascular treatment is a promising alternative. Among endovascular treatment options, deconstructive treatment has been associated with higher morbidity compared with reconstructive methods such as direct embolization, stent- or balloon-assisted direct embolization, stent monotherapy, and flow diversion. Flow diversion has been associated with higher technical success rates and similar clinical outcomes compared with non–flow diverting treatment methods. However, delayed aneurysm occlusion and the need for antiplatelet therapy are potential drawbacks to flow diversion that must be considered when choosing among treatment methods for blister aneurysms.

Current status of the treatment of blood blister-like aneurysms of the supraclinoid internal carotid artery: A review

Currently, the treatment of blood blister-like aneurysms (BBAs) of the supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) is challenging and utilizes many therapeutic methods, including direct clipping and suturing, clipping after wrapping, clipping after suturing, coil embolization, stent-assisted coil embolization, multiple overlapping stents, flow-diverting stents, covered stents, and trapping with or without bypass. In these therapeutic approaches, the optimal treatment method for BBAs has not yet been defined based on the current understanding of BBAs of the supraclinoid ICA. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to review the literature from PubMed to discuss and analyze the pros and cons of the above approaches while adding our own viewpoints to the discussion. Among the surgical methods, direct clipping was the easiest method if the compensation of the collateral circulation of the intracranial distal ICA was sufficient or direct clipping did not induce stenosis in the parent artery. In addition, the clipping after wrapping technique should be chosen as the optimal surgical modality to prevent rebleeding from these lesions. Among the endovascular methods, multiple overlapping stents (≥3) with coils may be a feasible alternative for the treatment of ruptured BBAs. In addition, flow-diverting stents appear to have a higher rate of complete occlusion and a lower rate of retreatment and are a promising treatment method. Finally, when all treatments failed or the compensation of the collateral circulation of the intracranial distal ICA was insufficient, the extracranial-intracranial (EC-IC) arterial bypass associated with surgical or endovascular trapping, a complex and highly dangerous method, was used as the treatment of last resort.

Endovascular isolation of intracranial blood blister-like aneurysms with Willis covered stent

Objective

Intracranial blood blister-like aneurysm (BBA) is a rare type of aneurysm that lacks all layers of the arterial wall. These fragile aneurysms have the propensity to rupture with minimal manipulation, which makes them hazardous and difficult to treat. The present study evaluated the safety and feasibility of endovascular treatment of BBAs with the Willis covered stent.

Materials

Thirteen patients (7 men and 6 women, age range 28–68 years) who presented with ruptured BBAs and were treated with the Willis covered stent were retrospectively reviewed. Results of the procedures and treatment-related complications were recorded. Angiographic and clinical follow-ups were performed 4–6 months after the procedure.

Results

Placement of the covered stent was successful in all patients. Immediate angiography showed complete aneurysm occlusion in 12 patients while one patient showed a mild endoleak. This high rate of aneurysm exclusion ensured the security of postoperative antiplatelet treatment. Occlusion of the ophthalmic artery occurred in two patients and occlusion of the anterior choroidal artery occurred in one patient; however, none of them showed acute or delayed clinical symptoms. Thrombosis, aneurysm rupture, and other complications did not develop in any case. Angiographic follow-up showed complete aneurysm exclusion without aneurysm recurrence in any patients. Only two patients showed asymptomatic mild to moderate in-stent stenosis. All patients had satisfactory clinical outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score ≤1).

Conclusions

Willis covered stent implementation may be safe and feasible for BBAs. This strategy might be a promising option for this high-risk type of aneurysm.

Endovascular treatment of ruptured blood blister-like aneurysms with multiple (≥3) overlapping Enterprise stents and coiling

BACKGROUND

Blood blister-like aneurysms (BBAs) are difficult to treat both surgically and endovascularly, and the optimal treatment remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and angiographic feasibility of multiple overlapping stents (≥3) with coiling for treating BBA.

METHODS

A retrospective review from four institutions identified ten patients with ruptured BBAs who were treated with multiple overlapping stents (≥3). We included both the patients who were initially treated with more than three stents and those who eventually had more than three stents as a consequence of retreatment. Angiographic results (Raymond scale), clinical outcomes (mRS) and treatment courses were evaluated.

RESULTS

Initially, seven patients were treated with triple stents and three with double stents. Immediate angiographic results revealed that six aneurysms were Raymond grade 1, three were grade 2, and one was grade 3. Complementary treatment was required in four patients. All three patients who were initially treated with double stents required complementary treatment (100 %). One patient required complementary treatment among the seven patients who were initially treated with three stents (14.3 %). The last follow-up angiography (mean, 12.2 ± 14.7 months; range, 1-44 months) revealed grade 1 in all ten patients. Clinical data (mean follow-up period, 18.2 ± 20.1 months; range, 1-62 months) revealed eight patients with a mRS score of 0-2 and two with mRS 3-5.

CONCLUSIONS

Even in the era of flow diverter stents, multiple overlapping stents (≥3) with coiling could be a feasible alternative for treating ruptured BBAs. Additional experience and follow-up are needed in a larger series to state the long-term efficacy of this treatment.

Endovascular Treatment of Ruptured Blister-Like Aneurysms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with Focus on Deconstructive versus Reconstructive and Flow-Diverter Treatments

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Various endovascular techniques have been applied to treat blister-like aneurysms. We performed a systematic review to evaluate endovascular treatment for ruptured blister-like aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a comprehensive literature search and subgroup analyses to compare deconstructive versus reconstructive techniques and flow diversion versus other reconstructive options.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies with 265 procedures for ruptured blister-like aneurysms were included. Endovascular treatment was associated with a 72.8% (95% CI, 64.2%-81.5%) mid- to long-term occlusion rate and a 19.3% (95% CI, 13.6%-25.1%) retreatment rate. Mid- to long-term neurologic outcome was good in 76.2% (95% CI, 68.9%-8.4%) of patients. Two hundred forty procedures (90.6%) were reconstructive techniques (coiling, stent-assisted coiling, overlapped stent placement, flow diversion) and 25 treatments (9.4%) were deconstructive. Deconstructive techniques had higher rates of initial complete occlusion than reconstructive techniques (77.3% versus 33.0%, P = .0003) but a higher risk for perioperative stroke (29.1% versus 5.0%, P = .04). There was no difference in good mid- to long-term neurologic outcome between groups, with 76.2% for the reconstructive group versus 79.9% for the deconstructive group (P = .30). Of 240 reconstructive procedures, 62 (25.8%) involved flow-diverter stents, with higher rates of mid- to long-term complete occlusion than other reconstructive techniques (90.8% versus 67.9%, P = .03) and a lower rate of retreatment (6.6% versus 30.7%, P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular treatment of ruptured blister-like aneurysms is associated with high rates of complete occlusion and good mid- to long-term neurologic outcomes in most patients. Deconstructive techniques are associated with higher occlusion rates but a higher risk of perioperative ischemic stroke. In the reconstructive group, flow diversion carries a higher level of complete occlusion and similar clinical outcomes.

Assisted coiling using LEO Baby or LVIS Jr stents: Report of six cases

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Endovascular treatment of broad-neck, complex cerebral aneurysms is a challenging issue. Placement of a stent over the aneurysm neck and secondary coil embolization prevents coil migration and allows dense packing of the coils. Another challenge is represented by distal aneurysms situated in small vessels. In these cases, the use of little stents, which we are going call ministents, could be a good decision. These low-profile intracranial ministents can be deployed into arteries with diameters between 1.5 and 3.10 mm and delivered through microcatheters with an internal diameter of 0.0165 inches, which allows easier navigation in small-sized, delicate vessels. We present six cases of wide-neck aneurysms, with small parental arteries less than 2.5 mm using a low-profile ministent system (LEO Baby and LVIS Jr) plus coil embolization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients in whom LEO Baby or LVIS Jr stent was used for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Five aneurysms were treated during 2013-2014 in our service using the LEO Baby stent and one aneurysm using LVIS Jr. Stent-assisted coil embolization was performed using the jailing technique in all cases. Clinical and angiographic findings, procedural data, and follow-up are reported.

RESULTS

Six consecutive patients were included in this study. Four patients presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage in the subacute-chronic phase and two patients had unruptured aneurysms. Two of the six aneurysms were located at branches of the sylvian artery, one at the basilar artery, two at the anterior communicating artery, and one at the P1-P2 artery. The procedures were successful. Six-month control digital subtraction angiograms were obtained in all cases; they demonstrated complete occlusion of the aneurysms in all instances. All patients had good clinical outcomes on follow-up, as measured with the Glasgow Outcome Scale and Modified Rankin Scale.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this small study show that the LEO Baby and LVIS Jr ministents could be safe and efficient for endovascular treatment of intracranial broad-neck aneurysms situated in small arteries.

High-flow bypass and wrap-clipping for ruptured blood blister-like aneurysm of the internal carotid artery using intraoperative monitoring of cerebral hemodynamics

Aneurysms at non-branching sites in the supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) can be classified as “blood blister-like aneurysms” (BBAs), which have blood blister-like configurations and fragile walls. While surgical treatment for the BBA in the acute stage is recommended, the optimal surgical procedure remains controversial. In the study reported here, we describe the case of a 37-year-old woman with a ruptured BBA in the ophthalmic segment of the right ICA who underwent wrap-clipping with external carotid artery–internal carotid artery bypass by intraoperative estimation of the measurement of cortical cerebral blood flow (CoBF) using a thermal diffusion flow probe. Trapping of the ICA in the acute stage of subarachnoid hemorrhage may result in ischemic complications secondary to hemodynamic hypoperfusion or occlusion of the perforating artery, and/or delayed vasospasm, even with concomitant bypass surgery. We believe that it is important to perform scheduled external carotid artery–internal carotid artery bypass before trapping of the ICA in patients with a ruptured BBA in the acute stage of subarachnoid hemorrhage and to perform wrap-clipping rather than trapping. This would provide much more CoBF if a reduction of CoBF occurs after trapping occlusion of the ICA including a ruptured BBA according to intraoperative CoBF monitoring. As far as we are aware, the case reported here is the first report on high-flow bypass and wrap-clipping for a ruptured BBA of the ICA using intraoperative monitoring of cerebral hemodynamics.

Republished: Monotherapy with stenting in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) after middle cerebral artery dissection

Isolated middle cerebral artery dissection is a rare clinical entity, with descriptions limited to a few case reports and case series. Symptomatic dissection in the anterior circulation can present as an ischemic stroke in a young population; however, it is rarely associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage. We describe a young patient who presented with acute headache from a subarachnoid hemorrhage that was ultimately determined to be due to a vascular dissection in the middle cerebral artery. The initial angiogram showed vascular irregularities in this area with stenosis. Repeat imaging 4 days after presentation identified a pseudoaneurysm proximal to the stenosis. The patient was successfully treated with a self-expanding nitinol stent and followed up with serial angiography during postoperative recovery in the hospital; additional angiograms were performed approximately 1 and 6 months after treatment. Serial angiograms demonstrated incremental healing of the dissection. The patient was discharged and remains neurologically intact at the 6-month follow-up.

Monotherapy with stenting in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) after middle cerebral artery dissection

Isolated middle cerebral artery dissection is a rare clinical entity, with descriptions limited to a few case reports and case series. Symptomatic dissection in the anterior circulation can present as an ischemic stroke in a young population; however, it is rarely associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage. We describe a young patient who presented with acute headache from a subarachnoid hemorrhage that was ultimately determined to be due to a vascular dissection in the middle cerebral artery. The initial angiogram showed vascular irregularities in this area with stenosis. Repeat imaging 4 days after presentation identified a pseudoaneurysm proximal to the stenosis. The patient was successfully treated with a self-expanding nitinol stent and followed up with serial angiography during postoperative recovery in the hospital; additional angiograms were performed approximately 1 and 6 months after treatment. Serial angiograms demonstrated incremental healing of the dissection. The patient was discharged and remains neurologically intact at the 6-month follow-up.

Endovascular treatment of supraclinoid internal carotid artery aneurysms

Endovascular management of intracranial aneurysms has advanced significantly over the last couple decades and continues to evolve, including aneurysms within the subgroup of supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ophthalmic, superior hypophyseal, posterior communicating, anterior choroidal, dorsal wall/blister, and carotid terminus).

Dual stenting using low-profile LEO baby stents for the endovascular management of challenging intracranial aneurysms

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Endovascular treatment of wide-neck, complex, and distally located cerebral aneurysms is a challenging issue. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of dual stent placement by using a low-profile stent system (LEO Baby) for the treatment of challenging distal intracranial aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients in whom at least 1 LEO Baby stent was used in the context of dual stent placement for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Patients who were treated with dual stent-assisted coil embolization and telescopic implantation of LEO Baby stents were included in the study. Clinical and angiographic findings, procedural data, and follow-up are reported.

RESULTS

Twelve patients were included in this study. Three patients presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage in the subacute-chronic phase, and the remaining patients had unruptured aneurysms. Nine patients were treated by using the dual stent-assisted coiling method. X- (nonintersecting), Y- (intersecting and reversible), T-, and parallel-stent configurations were performed for the dual stent-assisted coiling procedures. Three patients were treated by using telescopic stent placement for a flow diverter-like effect. The procedures were successful in all cases. Technical complications without a significant clinical adverse event developed in 2 patients. The 3- and 6-month control MRAs and DSAs demonstrated complete occlusion of the aneurysms in all patients except 1. All patients had good clinical outcomes on follow-up (mRS ≤1).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this small study showed the feasibility of dual stent placement by using low-profile LEO Baby stents to treat distally located complex intracranial aneurysms.

Successful management with 2 overlapping bare stents for post-carotid endarterectomy carotid pseudoaneurysm secondary to carotid shunt

Pseudoaneurysms are a rare complication of carotid endarterectomy. We successfully excluded with 2 overlapping bare stents a distal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm very likely induced by a Pruitt-Inahara shunt 2 months after carotid endarterectomy.

Endovascular management of intracranial blister aneurysms: spectrum and limitations of contemporary techniques

Background

Intracranial blister aneurysms are rare lesions that are notoriously more difficult to treat than typical saccular aneurysms. High complication rates associated with surgery have sparked considerable interest in endovascular techniques, though not well-studied, to treat blister aneurysms.

Objective

To evaluate our experience using various endovascular approaches to treat blister aneurysms.

Methods

All consecutive blister aneurysms treated using an endovascular approach by the study authors over a 3-year period were retrospectively analyzed. A literature review was also performed.

Results

Nine patients with blister aneurysms underwent 11 endovascular interventions. In various combinations, stents were used in 8/11, coils in 5/11, and Onyx in 3/11 procedures. At mean angiographic follow-up of 200 days, 8/9 aneurysms were completely occluded by endovascular means alone requiring no further treatment and 1/9 aneurysms required surgical bypass/trapping after one failed surgical and two failed endovascular treatments. At mean clinical follow-up of 416 days, modified Rankin Scale scores were improved in six patients, stable in two, and worsened in one patient. One complication occurred in 11 procedures (9%), resulting in a permanent neurologic deficit. No unintended endovascular parent vessel sacrifice, intraprocedural aneurysmal ruptures, antiplatelet-related complications, post-treatment aneurysmal re-ruptures, or deaths occurred.

Conclusion

This series highlights both the spectrum and limitations of endovascular techniques currently used to treat blister aneurysms, including a novel application of stent-assisted Onyx embolization. Long-term follow-up and experience in larger studies are required to better define the role of endovascular therapy in the management of these difficult lesions.