Predictors of Rehemorrhage After Treatment of Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

Clinical comparison of flow diversion and microsurgery for retreatment of intracranial aneurysms

BACKGROUND

The goal of aneurysm retreatment is effective, durable obliteration. Flow diversion (FD) and microsurgical clipping generally represent two aneurysm treatment options with high obliteration rates. However, their relative efficacy in aneurysm retreatment has been infrequently evaluated. We thus sought to compare the radiographic and neurological outcomes of microsurgery to FD for retreatment of intracranial aneurysms (IA)s.

METHOD

A single institution database was reviewed to identify patients undergoing retreatment for IAs over a two-year period via either FD or microsurgery. Obliteration rates and neurological outcomes were compared between the two retreatment modalities and across subgroups. Impact of retreatment modality was adjusted via multivariate logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven retreatments were identified, 60 % via microsurgery and 40 % via FD. Microsurgery was more commonly performed for anterior communicating artery (Acomm) aneurysms (p = 0.04), residual size < 10 mm (p = 0.02), and aneurysms initially treated endovascularly (p = 0.02). FD was more commonly performed for ICA aneurysms (p = 0.01) and residual size > 10 mm (p = 0.02). Angiographic obliteration rates and neurological outcome were similar overall between the two retreatment modalities at a median follow-up of 26 months. Raymond I obliteration after 12-month follow-up was 94.9 % after microsurgery and 95.2 % after FD (p = 1.00). Good neurological outcome (mRS 0-2) was similar between FD and microsurgery (92.6 % versus 90 %, p = 1.00). Comparable outcomes were observed across several subgroups, including previously ruptured aneurysms and aneurysms requiring retreatment within 6 months. Compared with a 10 % major complication rate after microsurgery, no major events occurred after FD (p = 0.14).

CONCLUSION

FD is an appropriate endovascular option for IA retreatment, with comparable efficacy and neurological outcome to microsurgery at 2-year follow-up. Longer-term follow-up will be critical to more accurately determine therapeutic efficacy.

Angiographic results of aneurysms treated with Woven EndoBridge (WEB) devices or coils: an inter- and intra-observer reliability study

BACKGROUND

Angiographic results are commonly used to evaluate and compare the treatment of aneurysms. We sought to determine and compare the reliability and clinical implications of a commonly used 3-point angiographic outcome scale for aneurysms treated with WEB or endovascular coils.

METHODS

An electronic portfolio of 60 aneurysms (30 treated with WEB devices and 30 with coils) was evaluated by 32 raters of various training backgrounds, who were asked to grade angiographic results and provide management recommendations (delayed follow-up, close follow-up, or re-treatment). Twenty-five raters performed a second evaluation of permuted cases at least a month later. Agreement was analyzed with Gwet's AC2 (κG) reliability coefficients and the relationship between angiographic grade and management recommendation using Cramer's V.

RESULTS

Inter-rater agreement was substantial for occlusion grade (κG = 0.78; 95%CI: 0.74-0.82) and management decision (κG = 0.79; 95%CI: 0.74-0.84). Agreement was substantial and similar for angiographic results of WEB-treated (κG = 0.78; 95%CI: 0.79-0.85) and coiled aneurysms (κG = 0.79; 95%CI: 0.74-0.83). Inter-rater agreement on management decisions was substantial for both WEB-treated aneurysms (κG = 0.79; 95%CI: 0.73-0.85) and coiled aneurysms (κG = 0.79; 95%CI: 0.73-0.85). Mean intra-rater agreement was substantial or almost perfect. There was strong correlation between angiographic grade and management recommendation (mean Cramer's V = 0.77, SD: 0.12). The meaning of each category of the scale in terms of further management was the same, whether treatment was with WEB or coils.

CONCLUSION

A commonly used 3-point scale was shown to be a reliable tool to compare the results of aneurysms treated with WEB devices or endovascular coils.

Detection of remnants in clipped unruptured intracranial aneurysms by intraoperative CT-angiography and postoperative DSA: clinical relevance and follow-up

BACKGROUND

Aneurysm clipping is routinely performed with high efficacy and low complication rates in specialized neurovascular centers. Postoperative aneurysm remnants bear the risk of growth/rupture. Study aim was to analyze remnants in postoperative angiography (pDSA) and follow-up (FU) and to evaluate whether use of intraoperative CT-angiography (iCTA) can intraoperatively detect remnants and enable therapeutic consequences.

METHODS

All patients undergoing elective aneurysm clipping at our center between 11/2012 and 12/2019 were included for FU in 01/2024. All patients received Indocyanin-green-videoangiography (ICGVA) and postoperative angiography (pDSA). After iCTA implementation in 10/2016, the majority of patients received additionally iCTA. Baseline characteristics, treatment-related morbidity/outcome, resulting operative conclusions in distinct cohorts with/without iCTA, and management of remnants according to Sindou classification were analyzed.

RESULTS

270 patients (367 enrolled/97 excluded) were clipped using iCTA in 74 patients. In 12/270 patients (4.5%) clip repositioning was performed due to ICGVA results, but iCTA further detected large remnants intraoperatively in 3/74 patients (4.1%) correctly resulting in re-clipping in two patients and recommendation for endovascular therapy in one patient. The specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy for detection of Sindou grade (SG) III-IV remnants by iCTA were 100%, 75%, and 98.6%, respectively. Overall, pDSA detected SG I-II remnants in 32/270 (11.9%) and SG III-V remnants in 8/270 (3.0%) patients with 3/270 requiring retreatment (n = 1 resurgery, n = 2 endovascular therapy). Frequency of SG I-V and III-V remnants were slightly lower in iCTA than non-iCTA group (10.8 vs. 16.3%, p < 0.173 and 1.4 vs. 3.6%, p < 0.306). All SG I-II and five SG III-V remnants did not reveal growth/rupture after a mean FU of 29 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Aneurysm remnants after clipping are rare and predominantly small (SGI-II)-not harbouring a risk of growth/rupture during short-term FU. Intraoperative CTA can detect large aneurysm remnants (SG III-IV) and may prompt adjustment of surgical strategy in individual cases.

Angiographic morphologies of wide-necked cerebral aneurysms for predicting immediate incomplete occlusion after coil embolization

Background

Wide-necked cerebral aneurysms present unique challenges in endovascular treatment, with immediate incomplete occlusion posing significant risks for recurrence and mortality. However, the predictive factors of immediate incomplete occlusion after coil embolization of wide-necked aneurysms have not been identified. Thus, this study aimed to identify specific angiographic morphologies predictive of immediate incomplete occlusion after coil or stent-assisted embolization for wide-necked aneurysms.

Methods

This retrospective case-control study evaluated all patients diagnosed with cerebral wide-necked aneurysms who underwent endovascular treatment between January 2009 and December 2019. The case was defined as wide-necked aneurysms with immediate incomplete occlusion, while control was defined as those with immediate complete occlusion. The cases and controls were compared in a 1:3 ratio. Angiographic morphologies as the predictors of immediate incomplete occlusion were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression with adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

There were 73 and 226 cases and controls, respectively. Aneurysm height ≥5.6 mm (aOR, 8.14; 95% CI, 4.21-15.75; P < 0.001), absent shoulder (aOR, 4.22; 95% CI, 1.74-10.25; P = 0.001), one-sided shoulder (aOR, 2.54; 95% CI, 1.26-5.15; P = 0.009), and presence of vessel incorporation (aOR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.02-4.73; P = 0.044) were independent risk factors of immediate incomplete occlusion.

Conclusion

Aneurysm height ≥5.6 mm, absent two-sided shoulder, and presence of vessel incorporation significantly predict immediate incomplete occlusion after coil embolization for wide-necked aneurysms.

Microsurgical management of previously embolized intracranial aneurysms: A single center experience and literature review

BACKGROUND

Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) provides less invasiveness and lower morbidity than microsurgical clipping, albeit with a long-term recurrence rate estimated at 20%. We present our single-center experience and a literature review concerning surgical clipping of recurrent previously coiled aneurysms.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of nine (9) patients' data and final clinical/angiographic outcomes, who underwent surgical clipping of IAs in our center following initial endovascular treatment, over a 12-year period (2010-2022). Regarding the literature review, data were extracted from 48 studies including 969 patients with 976 aneurysms.

RESULTS

9 patients (5 males - 4 females) were included in the study with a mean age of 49 years. Subarachnoid hemorrhage was the initial presentation in 78% of patients. Aneurysms' most common location was the middle cerebral artery bifurcation (5/9) followed by the anterior communicating artery (3/9) and the internal carotid artery bifurcation (1/9). Indications for surgery were coil loosening, coil compaction, sac regrowth, and residual neck. Procedure-related morbidity and mortality were zero whereas complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved after surgical clipping in all cases (100%). All patients had minimal symptoms or were asymptomatic (mRS 0-1) at the final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical clipping seems a feasible and safe technique for selected cases of recurrent previously coiled intracranial aneurysms. A universally accepted recurrence classification system and a guideline template for the management of such cases are needed.

Multifactorial Assessment of Complication Risks in Embolization for Ruptured Cerebral Aneurysm

Objective

Complications in neuroendovascular therapy for cerebral aneurysm (AN) affect the clinical course of patients. Patient conditions, operating procedures, and operator expertise were highlighted as risk factors for complications. These risk factors often combine and constitute particularly strong risks, resulting in a worsened clinical course. In this study, we performed a multifactorial assessment of complication risks in neuroendovascular therapy.

Methods

We analyzed patient data from the Japanese Registry of NeuroEndovascular Therapy 3, which is a nationwide retrospective cohort study of neuroendovascular procedures conducted between 2010 and 2014. Patients who underwent coil embolization for a ruptured anterior communicating artery (Acom) AN, an internal carotid artery-posterior communicating artery (IC-PC) AN, or basilar artery bifurcation (BA-bif) AN were included in this analysis. Information on 16 explanatory variables and 1 objective variable for each patient was obtained from the dataset as nominal variables. The explanatory variables consisted of patient factors, procedural factors, and an operator factor. The objective variable was whether the following complications occurred: intraprocedural bleeding, postprocedural bleeding, and procedure-related infarction. The specific situations involving multiple risk factors associated with high complication rates were identified using a programmed method. The impact of the absence of a supervising physician was also assessed.

Results

A total of 2971 patients were analyzed. The complication rates for patients with Acom ANs, IC-PC ANs, and BA-bif ANs were 12.9%, 10.2%, and 13.7%, respectively. A total of 15 specific situations were identified as follows: 3 related to an Acom AN, with complication rates ranging from 19.3% to 20.3%; 4 related to an IC-PC AN, with complication rates ranging from 15.6% to 17.9%; and 8 related to a BA-bif AN, with complication rates ranging from 20.6% to 33.3%. In 4 of these situations, the absence of a supervising physician significantly impacted complication rates. For instance, the complication rate for patients with IC-PC AN treated under local anesthesia was 16.0% overall, but it was 23.8% without supervising physicians.

Conclusion

Multifactorial assessment based on patient, procedural, and operator factors provides more reliable risk estimations and will help improve the clinical course.

Postoperative Time-of-Flight Magnetic Resonance Angiography Classification is a Predictor of Postoperative Recanalization of Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Endovascular treatment has become the preferred approach for managing unruptured cerebral aneurysms, with simple and balloon-assisted coil embolization as the standard first-line therapy. However, recanalization after coil embolization remains a major clinical concern. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive factors for recanalization using time-of-flight magnetic resonance (TOF-MR) angiography.

METHODS

This retrospective multicenter study analyzed data from 241 patients with unruptured cerebral aneurysms who underwent coil embolization at 5 stroke centers. Aneurysms were evaluated using TOF-MR angiography within 7 days postprocedure and at follow-up. The study investigated the role of aneurysm characteristics and the Postoperative TOF-MR Angiography (PTMA) classification in predicting recanalization.

RESULTS

Of the 241 aneurysms analyzed, 79 (32.7%) exhibited recanalization, and 15 (6.2%) required retreatment. Aneurysms with a maximum diameter of ≥10 mm were associated with a higher risk of recanalization (odds ratio, 3.27; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.38-7.75; P < 0.01). The PTMA classification, which indicated incomplete occlusion (small residual neck/residual neck/partial occlusion), also showed a significant association with recanalization (odds ratio, 4.82; 95% confidence interval, 2.17-10.7; P < 0.01). The modified Raymond-Roy classification (Class IIIb) also contributed to the prediction of recanalization (odds ratio, 3.09; 95% confidence interval, 1.50-6.38; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Aneurysm size, the modified Raymond-Roy classification, and PTMA classification within 7 days of coil embolization were significant predictors of recanalization. This study suggests that TOF-MR angiography may be accurate, and that PTMA classification may serve as an appropriate predictor of aneurysm recanalization. Further prospective studies with larger cohorts are required to validate our findings.

Evolving treatment paradigms of cerebral aneurysm stasis in flow diversion

INTRODUCTION

Flow diversion is an effective first-line treatment for intracranial aneurysms; however, the rate of incomplete occlusion is not insignificant. Data in neuroendovascular literature is limited regarding the implications of persistent incomplete occlusion despite flow diversion.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database and identified 125 consecutive patients with treatment naïve intracranial aneurysms who underwent flow diversion with the PED from April 2014 - November 2022. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on the duration of stasis: venous, capillary, and no stasis. Comparative and multivariate analyses were performed between the three groups.

RESULTS

At latest follow-up, complete occlusion occurred in 69.6 % and 82.4 % showed progression of occlusion. Retreatment was required in 2.4 %. There was no significant difference in retreatment (p = 0.667), complete occlusion (p = 0.774) or progression of occlusion (p = 0.848) at latest follow up. No patients experienced subarachnoid hemorrhage post-treatment. On multivariate analysis, hypertension was a negative predictor for complete occlusion (p = 0.006) and progression of occlusion (p = 0.017), while duration of stasis was noncontributory. The mean latest follow up was 12.55 months.

CONCLUSION

Flow diversion is a safe and effective first line treatment for intracranial aneurysms with a relatively low complication rate. Hypertension was a negative predictor of complete occlusion and progression of occlusion, while the degree of occlusion post-flow diversion may not be predictive of future rupture risk and the Raymond Roy Occlusion classification may not apply. The degree of stasis after initial treatment was not predictive of future occlusion, retreatment, nor aneurysm rupture risk. However, stasis degree may be worth additional analysis given this studies sample size, lack of long-term follow-up, and the lack of predictive factors in current literature to guide post-flow diversion management.

Microsurgical Clipping of Wide-Neck Anterior Circulation Aneurysms: A Case Series From a Low- and Middle-Income Country

Background Aneurysms of the anterior circulation are the most prevalent of intracranial aneurysms, most of which are saccular. Wide-neck aneurysms (WNAs) are a specific subtype of intracranial aneurysms that are difficult to treat. Adequate endovascular management of such aneurysms requires assistive devices that are either too costly or sometimes unavailable in our setting as a resource-limited country, strongly supporting the resurgence of microsurgical clipping in the management of such understudied aneurysms. In this study, we aim to assess the short- and intermediate-term radiological and functional outcomes of microsurgical clipping in a resource-limited country. Methodology This is a case series study conducted from January 2022 to January 2024. All patients with wide neck anterior circulation aneurysms who were managed by microsurgical clipping were included in this study. Clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes were reported at 3 months and 6 months as short- and intermediate-term outcomes, respectively. Results Nine WNAs of the anterior circulation in eight patients were included. Five patients were males and three were females. AcomA was the most common location of three aneurysms. All our patients presented with ruptured aneurysms except one mirror-image M2 aneurysm. All aneurysms were completely clipped except one PcomA aneurysm that had a neck remnant that was diagnosed and managed endovascularly with a flow diverter. Six patients had favorable outcomes at discharge (modified Rankin score of 0-2). We had one case of intraoperative rupture, a single case of hydrocephalus that was treated with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, and two cases of mortality, one of them due to delayed ischemic neurological deficit. All ruptured aneurysms were clipped using two clips. The unruptured aneurysm in the patient with two mirror-image M2 aneurysms was managed with a single clip 3 months after the ruptured one. Conclusion Microsurgical clipping continues to be a viable option in the management of WNAs both radiologically and functionally, especially in our setting as a resource-limited country where endovascular management could be costly and sometimes not available.

Proposal of a Machine Learning Based Prognostic Score for Ruptured Microsurgically Treated Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysms

Background: Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) carries significant mortality and disability rates, with rebleeding posing a grave risk, particularly in anterior communicating artery (AcoA) aneurysms. This retrospective study aims to analyze preoperative and intraoperative variables of patients with ruptured AcoA aneurysms, evaluating the association of these variables with patient outcomes using machine learning techniques, proposing a prognostic score. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 50 patients who underwent microsurgical clipping for a ruptured AcoA aneurysm at San Giovanni Bosco Hospital, Turin, Italy. The clinical and aneurysmal data-including clinical evaluations, risk factors, aneurysmal characteristics, and intra- and postoperative details-were examined. The study population was analyzed using machine learning techniques such as the MRMR algorithm for feature selection, and the LASSO method was employed to construct linear predictive models based on these features. Results: The study cohort had a mean age of 54 years, with 26 female and 24 male patients. Temporary clipping of main vessels was performed in 96% of procedures, with a mean duration of 3.74 min. Postoperatively, the mean Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay was 7.28 days, with 14% mortality at 30 days and 4% within the first week. At the six-month follow-up, 63% of discharged patients had a Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) of 5, with radiological confirmation of complete aneurysm exclusion in 98% of cases. Machine learning techniques identified the significant predictors of patient outcomes, with LASSO algorithms generating linear models to predict the GOS at discharge and at 6 months follow-up. Conclusions: Preoperative factors like the BNI score, Vasograde, and preoperative cerebral edema demonstrate significant correlations with patient outcomes post-clipping. Notably, intraoperative bleeding and extended temporary clipping durations (over 3 min) emerge as pivotal intraoperative considerations. Moreover, the AcoA prognostic score shows promise in predicting patient outcomes, discharge plans, and ICU duration.

Safety and efficacy of staged primary coiling followed by delayed flow diversion of ruptured intracranial aneurysms: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Ruptured intracranial aneurysms lead to significant mortality and morbidity. Recent advancements have suggested staged coiling with subsequent flow diverter stent placement may reduce the risk of hemorrhage with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) or stent thrombosis in the acute inflammatory phase after aneurysm rupture while still appropriately mitigating risk of aneurysmal rehemorrhage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis was conducted. Studies reporting patients receiving coiling followed by delayed flow diverter placement on a separate day were included.

RESULTS

Five studies, comprising 94 patients, were included for meta-analysis. Average time between procedures ranged from 9.8 to 169 days; 24% (95% CI: 10-41%) of patients had a poor functional neurologic outcome (modified Rankin Scale > 2) at discharge compared to 4% (0-11%) at last follow-up. There was one incidence of rehemorrhage between treatments, 0% (0-4%). Vasospasm after coiling was the most common adverse event, 16% (1-41%). There was low risk of ischemic complications [1% (0-8%) with coil placement and 5% (1-11%) with stent placement]. Intraprocedural intracranial hemorrhage was also rare (two patients during coil placement; no cases during stent placement). There were no significant differences if flow diversion was performed less than or greater than 100 days from coiling.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights the benefit of primary coiling with staged flow diversion for the management of ruptured intracranial aneurysms with a low risk for complications. Namely, the rate of rebleeding between treatments was exceptionally low. We advocate for the greater consideration of this treatment combination in the treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms.

Open Microsurgical Cerebral Aneurysm Treatment After Failed Endovascular Therapy: An Evaluation of Aneurysm Treatment Frequencies in All Neurovascular Centers Across Austria and the Czech Republic Over 20 Years

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms has tremendously advanced over the past decades. Nevertheless, aneurysm residual and recurrence remain challenges after embolization. The objective of this study was to elucidate the portion of embolized aneurysms requiring open surgery and evaluate whether newer endovascular treatments have changed the need for open surgery after failed embolization.

METHODS

All 15 cerebrovascular centers in Austria and the Czech Republic provided overall aneurysm treatment frequency data and retrospectively reviewed consecutive cerebral aneurysms treated with open surgical treatment after failure of embolization from 2000 to 2022. All endovascular modalities were included.

RESULTS

On average, 1362 aneurysms were treated annually in the 2 countries. The incidence increased from 0.006% in 2005 to 0.008% in 2020 in the overall population. Open surgery after failed endovascular intervention was necessary in 128 aneurysms (0.8%), a proportion that remained constant over time. Subarachnoid hemorrhage was the initial presentation in 70.3% of aneurysms. The most common location was the anterior communicating artery region (40.6%), followed by the middle cerebral artery (25.0%). The median diameter was 6 mm (2-32). Initial endovascular treatment included coiling (107 aneurysms), balloon-assist (10), stent-assist (4), intrasaccular device (3), flow diversion (2), and others (2). Complete occlusion after initial embolization was recorded in 40.6%. Seventy-one percent of aneurysms were operated within 3 years after embolization. In 7%, the indication for surgery was (re-)rupture and, in 88.3%, reperfusion. Device removal was performed in 16.4%. Symptomatic intraoperative and postoperative complications occurred in 10.2%. Complete aneurysm occlusion after open surgery was achieved in 94%.

CONCLUSION

Open surgery remains a rare indication for cerebral aneurysms after failed endovascular embolization even in the age of novel endovascular technology, such as flow diverters and intrasaccular devices. Regardless, it is mostly performed for ruptured aneurysms initially treated with primary coiling that are in the anterior circulation.

The safety and efficiency of SMART coil for brain aneurysm: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The SMART coil system is a relatively new generation of embolic coils consisting of a bare platinum coil, a detachment pusher, and a detachment handle. This study investigated the safety and efficiency of the SMART coil system in treating cerebral aneurysms.

METHOD

PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched until October, 1st 2023. Non-English language, non-human studies, and non-original studies were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 7 studies were included. The results of our study reflected complete aneurysm occlusion (mRRC1) rate of 45% (95% CI, 0.35-0.56), neck remnant aneurysm (mRRC2) rate of 36% (95% CI, 0.30-0.42), and residual aneurysm (mRRC3) rate of 22% (95% CI, 0.12-0.38) during post-procedural assessment. Moreover, considering longest follow-up, our study showed complete aneurysm occlusion (mRRC1) rate of 66% (95% CI, 0.43-0.84), neck remnant aneurysm (mRRC2) rate of 27% (95% CI, 0.13-0.49), and residual aneurysm (mRRC3) rate of 9% (95% CI, 0.04-0.20). In addition, recanalization and retreatment rates were reported 10% (95% CI, 0.06-0.17) and 9% (95% CI, 0.06-0.12), respectively. The rates of adverse and serious adverse events were 9% (95% CI, 0.07-0.10) and 6% (95% CI, 0.01-0.22), respectively. Three studies reported a stroke rate which was 2% (95% CI, 0.00-0.13), and five studies reported a mortality rate which was 6% (95% CI, 0.03-0.11).

CONCLUSION

The findings suggested that the SMART coil can be a safe and efficient treatment in patients with intracranial aneurysms compared to other available treatment methods.

Systematic review and comparative analysis of endovascular and microsurgical management of giant ruptured fusiform mca aneurysms with illustrative cases

BACKGROUND

Despite advances in neurosurgical techniques and technology, the management of ruptured giant fusiform MCA aneurysms remains challenging. In the literature, microsurgical intervention is the most commonly described approach. However, recent advancements in endovascular techniques have expanded therapeutic options and as a result there is no consensus on the optimal management of these aneurysms.

METHODS

A literature search was performed through the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase databases, for surgical and endovascular management of ruptured giant fusiform MCA aneurysms. Inclusion criteria included: fusiform morphology, hemorrhage, major diameter greater than 2.5 cm and located along the MCA.

RESULTS

Literature review yielded 21 studies published from 1981 to 2023 and a total of 32 patients ages 33.40 ± 18.28. The male to female ratio was 1.9:1. The average Hunt and Hess score upon presentation in the total population was 2.78 ± 1.48, and the average pre-operative mRS of the total population was 2.75 ± 1.83. The average major diameter was 3.80 ± 1.85 cm. Average follow-up was 8.9 ± 9.74 months. There was no statistical difference in age (p = 0.5609), pre-operative mRS (p = 0.2355), Hunt and Hess scale (p = 0.183), aneurysm major diameter (p = 0.594) or follow-up (0.8922) between the two modalities. There was no significant difference in clinical outcome between microsurgical and endovascular intervention, nor was there a significant difference when stratified according to sex, major diameter, or location along the MCA. Two case examples are presented after management with cerebral revascularization.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis underscores the absence of statistical differences in clinical outcomes between microsurgical and endovascular strategies for ruptured giant fusiform MCA aneurysms, which highlights the need for complex surgical revascularization as represented on the illustrative cases where no endovascular option was available.

Exploring the hemodynamic behavior of residual aneurysms after coiling and clipping: A computational flow dynamic analysis

Background

Residual intracranial aneurysms post-clipping or coiling pose a poorly established risk of rupture. Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) offers insights into hemodynamic changes following such interventions. This study aims to assess hemodynamic parameters in residual aneurysms pre- and post-treatment with surgical clips or coils using CFD.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients between January 2015 and January 2024 was conducted. Digital subtraction angiography images were reconstructed using 3D modeling techniques, and hemodynamic parameters were analyzed with ANSYS® software.

Results

Six aneurysms were analyzed: Five unruptured and one ruptured. The aneurysms were located at the basilar apex (2), middle cerebral artery bifurcation (2), and origin of the posterior communicating artery (2). Post-treatment, there was a significant reduction in both aneurysm area (median reduction of 33.73%) and volume (median reduction of 25.3%). Five of the six cases demonstrated fewer low wall shear stress (WSS) areas, which could indicate a reduction in regions prone to thrombus formation and diminished risk of rupture. In the unruptured aneurysms, there was a median increase of 137.6% in average WSS. Notably, the only case with increased low WSS area also had the highest increase in average WSS. One basilar artery aneurysm showed increased WSS across all parameters, suggesting a higher rupture risk.

Conclusion

The increase in average and high WSS area, along with a decrease in low WSS area, reflects a complex balance between factors of stability and rupture risk. However, a simultaneous increase in all WSS parameters may represent the highest rupture risk due to increased mechanical stress on the aneurysm wall, necessitating closer monitoring.

Comparative analysis of long term effectiveness of Neuroform Atlas stent versus low profile visualized intraluminal stent/Woven EndoBridge devices in treatment of wide necked intracranial aneurysms

BACKGROUND

We compared the outcomes of wide necked aneurysms (WNA) treated with the Neuroform Atlas with those treated with the low profile visualized intraluminal stent (LVIS) or the Woven EndoBridge (WEB).

METHODS

Objective, prospectively collected, core laboratory adjudicated data from published trials for the Neuroform Atlas, LVIS, and WEB devices were reviewed. ATLAS (Safety and Effectiveness of the Treatment of Wide Neck, Saccular Intracranial Aneurysms With the Neuroform Atlas Stent System) study patients were included if they met other studies' inclusion criteria. Outcomes included (1) primary effectiveness (complete aneurysmal occlusion without retreatment/>50% parent vessel stenosis), (2) primary safety, (3) complete aneurysmal occlusion, and (4) retreatment rates (outcomes evaluated at the 12 month follow-up). Matching adjusted indirect comparison analysis was used to compare outcomes.

RESULTS

Analytical samples included 141 ATLAS subjects meeting WEB-IT (Woven EndoBridge Intrasaccular Therapy Study) criteria (ATLAS/WEB-IT) and 241 meeting LVIS (Pivotal Study of the Low Profile Visualized Intraluminal Support) criteria (ATLAS/LVIS). ATLAS/WEB-IT exhibited significantly higher rates of primary effectiveness and complete occlusion versus WEB (86.6% vs 53.9 %, P<0.0001, and 90.3% vs 53.9%, P<0.0001, respectively). For LVIS, there was no significant differences in primary effectiveness rates between ATLAS and LVIS (84.2% vs 77.7%, respectively, P=0.12). However, ATLAS/LVIS had a significantly higher proportion of patients achieving complete occlusion than LVIS (88.1 vs 79.1, P=0.03). Retreatment rates and primary safety outcomes were not significantly different (P>0.05) for the Atlas versus other devices except for a lower retreatment rate for ATLAS/WEB-IT versus WEB-IT (2.4% vs 9.8%, P=0.01).

CONCLUSION

The Neuroform Atlas provided higher occlusion rates and similar retreatment rates in comparable datasets compared with LVIS and WEB devices when treating WNA.

Long-Term Hemorrhage and Reperfusion Rates of Coiled Aneurysms: A Single-Center Experience

Background: The endovascular approach has emerged as standard therapy for many intracranial aneurysms (IAs) to prevent hemorrhage, yet its long-term durability varies considerably. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an initially deliberate endovascular approach regarding IA hemorrhage rates over a long-term follow-up period. Methods: This retrospective single-center study included all consecutive patients with endovascularly treated IAs who presented between January 2008 and December 2020 with a follow-up of at least 12 months. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with long-term IA hemorrhage rates and reperfusion. The secondary endpoint was treatment-related morbidity and mortality. Independent risk factors for IA reperfusion over the long term were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Results: Endovascular treatment was the therapy of choice for 333 patients with IAs, among whom 188 (57%) experienced rupture upon presentation. Complete coiling (Raymond I) was noted in 162 (49%) of the patients, with primary supportive devices being used in 51 (15%) patients. After a median (±SD) follow-up time of 34 ± 41 months (range 12-265 months), IA reperfusion was noted in 158 (47%), necessitating retreatment in 105 (32%) of the patients. Over the long term, hemorrhage was noted in four (1%) patients. Multivariate analysis revealed aneurysmal multilobarity (HR 1.8, 95%CI 1.2-2.7; p = 0.004) and a patient age of ≥50 years (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1-2.5, p = 0.01) as independent predictors of reperfusion over time. Intervention-related morbidity was noted in 16 (4.8%) patients, namely, thrombosis formation and contrast extravasation in 8 (2.4%) patients each, while no intervention-induced mortality was observed. Conclusion: In the long term, the hemorrhage rate in patients with IA with an initially more conservative endovascular approach is low. Therefore, a deliberate endovascular treatment approach might be justified.

Acute Neurological Emergency With Varied Challenges: An Unusual Occurrence and Multimodal Team Approach

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a devastating condition associated with high mortality and morbidity. Vascular malformations are the most common cause of non-traumatic SAH in patients less than 40 years old. We present a case of a 37-year-old male who presented on the second day of ictus with left-sided hemiparesis and a low Glasgow Coma Scale score (E1VTM5). Non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) scan of the head was suggestive of right basi-frontal hematoma, SAH, and hydrocephalus (HCP). Given SAH with HCP, the neurosurgical team initially placed a left frontal Ommaya. Cerebral digital subtraction angiography suggested an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) and two anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. Endovascular coiling of the ruptured A2-A3 junction aneurysm was done initially, followed by decompressive craniectomy and evacuation of hematoma and clipping of the still leaky A2-A3 junction aneurysm, also on the same day. The patient recovered in the intensive care unit and was discharged home in good health on the 18th postoperative day. Our case report presents the unique challenge of neuroprotection and maintaining intra-cerebral dynamics in a patient with cerebral aneurysms, AVM, SAH, and hematoma between coagulation (to prevent intra-cerebral hemorrhage) versus anti-coagulation (to prevent emboli during coiling), hypertensive therapy (to prevent cerebral vasospasm) versus relative normotension (to prevent rebleed), and early intervention (surgery and coiling) versus staged procedure. Our multimodal team approach was highly effective in successfully managing the patient and thus highlights its role in managing such critically ill patients.

Creation of a predictive calculator to determine adequacy of occlusion of the woven endobridge (WEB) device in intracranial aneurysms-A retrospective analysis of the WorldWide WEB Consortium database

BACKGROUND

Endovascular treatment with the woven endobridge (WEB) device has been widely utilized for managing intracranial aneurysms. However, predicting the probability of achieving adequate occlusion (Raymond-Roy classification 1 or 2) remains challenging.

OBJECTIVE

Our study sought to develop and validate a predictive calculator for adequate occlusion using the WEB device via data from a large multi-institutional retrospective cohort.

METHODS

We used data from the WorldWide WEB Consortium, encompassing 356 patients from 30 centers across North America, South America, and Europe. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed on a variety of demographic and clinical factors, from which predictive factors were selected. Calibration and validation were conducted, with variance inflation factor (VIF) parameters checked for collinearity.

RESULTS

A total of 356 patients were included: 124 (34.8%) were male, 108 (30.3%) were elderly (≥65 years), and 118 (33.1%) were current smokers. Mean maximum aneurysm diameter was 7.09 mm (SD 2.71), with 112 (31.5%) having a daughter sac. In the multivariate regression, increasing aneurysm neck size (OR 0.706 [95% CI: 0.535-0.929], p = 0.13) and partial aneurysm thrombosis (OR 0.135 [95% CI: 0.024-0.681], p = 0.016) were found to be the only statistically significant variables associated with poorer likelihood of achieving occlusion. The predictive calculator shows a c-statistic of 0.744. Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test indicated a satisfactory model fit with a p-value of 0.431. The calculator is available at: https://neurodx.shinyapps.io/WEBDEVICE/.

CONCLUSION

The predictive calculator offers a substantial contribution to the clinical toolkit for estimating the likelihood of adequate intracranial aneurysm occlusion by WEB device embolization.

Pitfalls of single-study external validation illustrated with a model predicting functional outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Prediction models are often externally validated with data from a single study or cohort. However, the interpretation of performance estimates obtained with single-study external validation is not as straightforward as assumed. We aimed to illustrate this by conducting a large number of external validations of a prediction model for functional outcome in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients.

METHODS

We used data from the Subarachnoid Hemorrhage International Trialists (SAHIT) data repository (n = 11,931, 14 studies) to refit the SAHIT model for predicting a dichotomous functional outcome (favorable versus unfavorable), with the (extended) Glasgow Outcome Scale or modified Rankin Scale score, at a minimum of three months after discharge. We performed leave-one-cluster-out cross-validation to mimic the process of multiple single-study external validations. Each study represented one cluster. In each of these validations, we assessed discrimination with Harrell's c-statistic and calibration with calibration plots, the intercepts, and the slopes. We used random effects meta-analysis to obtain the (reference) mean performance estimates and between-study heterogeneity (I2-statistic). The influence of case-mix variation on discriminative performance was assessed with the model-based c-statistic and we fitted a "membership model" to obtain a gross estimate of transportability.

RESULTS

Across 14 single-study external validations, model performance was highly variable. The mean c-statistic was 0.74 (95%CI 0.70-0.78, range 0.52-0.84, I2 = 0.92), the mean intercept was -0.06 (95%CI -0.37-0.24, range -1.40-0.75, I2 = 0.97), and the mean slope was 0.96 (95%CI 0.78-1.13, range 0.53-1.31, I2 = 0.90). The decrease in discriminative performance was attributable to case-mix variation, between-study heterogeneity, or a combination of both. Incidentally, we observed poor generalizability or transportability of the model.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate two potential pitfalls in the interpretation of model performance with single-study external validation. With single-study external validation. (1) model performance is highly variable and depends on the choice of validation data and (2) no insight is provided into generalizability or transportability of the model that is needed to guide local implementation. As such, a single single-study external validation can easily be misinterpreted and lead to a false appreciation of the clinical prediction model. Cross-validation is better equipped to address these pitfalls.

Coil embolization of the middle cerebral artery bifurcation aneurysms: Feasibility and durability

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility and durability of coil embolization for MCAB aneurysms by analyzing clinical and radiological results.

METHODS

From January of 2008 to June of 2018, we treated a total of 1785 aneurysms using coil embolization. The aneurysms were treated by both coiling and stent-assisted coiling. Among these cases, 223 MCAB aneurysms were analyzed retrospectively. Clinical and radiological assessments were conducted at admission, after treatment, at discharge, and at last clinical follow-up.

RESULTS

Coil embolization was performed on 223 MCAB aneurysms in 217 patients. Peri-procedural ischemic, hemorrhagic, and other complications within 30 days after coil embolization occurred at rates of 8.0 %, 8.0 %, and 2.0 %, respectively, in the ruptured group and at 2.9 %, 1.2 %, and 0 %, respectively, in the unruptured group. The overall morbidity and mortality rates associated with complications were 2.3 % and 2.0 %. The cumulative major recurrence rates were 5.1 % at 12 months, 7.1 % at 18 months, and 11.9 % at three years after coil embolization. The mean follow-up period was 33.27 ± 25.48 months. Independent risk factors for major recurrence after coil embolization for MCAB aneurysms were a ruptured aneurysm, initial incomplete occlusion, the aneurysm size, and the neck size.

CONCLUSION

Coil embolization is a good alternative treatment option for MCAB aneurysms compared to surgical clipping. Considering the risk factors for major recurrence, the follow-up angiography should continue up to three years after coil embolization.

European survey on follow-up strategies for unruptured intracranial aneurysms

Introduction

The increasing detection rates of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA) pose a challenge for both neurovascular centers, tasked with managing a growing pool of patients requiring regular monitoring with imaging, and the healthcare system that must bear the costs of such surveillance. While there is consensus on the need for follow-up of UIA, uncertainties persist regarding the optimal cessation of surveillance, especially when considering diverse patient risk factors and, notably, in cases of treated aneurysms with stable rest perfusion. Detailed guidelines on UIA follow-up are currently lacking, exacerbating these challenges.

Research question

We sought to investigate European strategies for follow-up of untreated, microsurgically and endovascularly treated UIA.

Material and methods

An online survey consisting of 15 questions about follow-up management of UIA was sent out to the cerebrovascular section of the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS).

Results

The survey response rate was 27.3% (68/249). There was consenus upon the necessity for long-term follow-up of UIA (100% [n = 68]). The recommendation to perform follow-up was inversely correlated with patient age and more prevalent among endovascularly compared to microsurgically treated patients (92.6% [n = 63] vs. 70.6% [n = 48]). A majority recommended continued follow-up of treated aneurysms with stable rest perfusion, with lifelong surveillance in patients under 60 years and continuation for 5-10 years in patients aged 61-80, irrespective of whether they underwent microsurgical (38.3% [n = 23]; 33.3% [n = 20]) or endovascular (41.9% [n = 26]; 30.6% [n = 19]) treatment.

Discussion and conclusion

This survey confirmed a European consensus on the necessity of long-term follow-up for untreated UIA. However, significant variations in follow-up strategies, especially for treated UIA and post-treatment rest perfusion, were noted. Despite limited evidence suggesting low risk from aneurysm remnants, respondents favored long-term follow-up, highlighting uncertainty in management. This underscores the need for collaborative research on aneurysm remnants and standardized follow-up protocols for UIA in Europe.

Surgical Treatment Strategies for Residual or Recurrent Intracranial Aneurysms Following Endovascular Embolization

OBJECTIVE

To explore how to effectively manage the residual or recurrent intracranial aneurysms after embolization.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed our experience of endovascular interventional therapy, surgical clipping, and cerebrovascular bypass surgery in the treatment of residual or recurrent aneurysms after embolization at the authors' institution from 2018 to 2022.

RESULTS

The Glasgow Outcome Scale of 28 patients after the procedure and at discharge showed that 24 recovered well, 3 had severe disability, and 1 died. During the 24-month follow-up, 26 had a good recovery, 1 suffered from disability, and 1 died. Two cases of aneurysm recurrence were detected, and both were treated through endovascular therapy. Among them, 1 case underwent a repeat endovascular embolization, and 1 case was switched to surgical clipping. No residual aneurysms were observed in the remaining patients who underwent bypass surgery, and their bypass grafts were all patent.

CONCLUSION

Based on the clinical status of patients, aneurysmal characteristics, surgical risk, and possibility of rerupture of aneurysms, an individualized strategy was proposed for residual or recurrent aneurysms after embolization. The use of endovascular interventional therapy or surgical clipping can be safely and effectively managed, and cerebrovascular bypass surgery can effectively manage complex aneurysms.

Flow Diverter Combined with Coil Embolization for Acutely Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms: A Single Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Extensive research has confirmed the safety and effectiveness of flow diverters in the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms. However, their use in cases of acute rupture remains a subject of debate.

METHODS

This study was conducted as a single-center retrospective investigation from January 2018 to January 2022 and included patients with acutely ruptured intracranial aneurysms (within three days of rupture) who were treated using the Pipeline Embolization Device with adjunctive coil embolization. Patient demographics, operative procedures, and outcomes were analyzed. Antiplatelet therapy included intra-arterial tirofiban and postoperative dual therapy with clopidogrel and aspirin.

RESULTS

A total of 21 patients (5 males, 16 females) diagnosed with acutely ruptured intracranial aneurysms were included in this study. The aneurysm types included 7 blood blister-like aneurysms (30.0%), 3 dissecting (14.3%), and 1 fusiform aneurysm (4.8%). Perioperative complications occurred in 2 patients (9.5%), and both cases involved thrombogenesis. Nineteen patients completed digital subtraction angiography during follow-up, with an average follow-up time of 8.7 months (5 - 18 months). Results showed a complete embolization rate of 94.7% (18/19), with a partial aneurysm still present in 1 patient. A total of 90.4% (19/21) of patients had a favorable prognosis (modified Rankin Scale score = 0 - 2).

CONCLUSIONS

The Pipeline Embolization Device with adjunctive coil embolization proved to be a viable option for managing acutely ruptured intracranial aneurysms, notwithstanding the potential for ischemic complications.

Kissing Aneurysms of the Anterior Communicating Artery Treated With Surgical Clipping: A Case Report and Literature Review

Intracranial "kissing" aneurysms are rare vascular conditions described as two anatomically adjacent aneurysms originating from either the same or different arteries, with their walls pressed together. Two-dimensional angiography was formerly considered the gold standard for diagnosis, with the three-dimensional rotational type now offering more insightful details about vascular discrepancies. The treatment of anterior communicating artery (AcoA) "kissing" aneurysms poses significant challenges, with surgical clipping proving difficult due to their deep midline location or the bilateral anterograde arterial supply. However, advancements in endovascular coil embolization, such as dual-volume reconstruction, can assist in diagnosis. This study presents the case of a 50-year-old patient who was diagnosed with "kissing" aneurysms of the AcoA. The patient underwent surgical clipping and showed no pathological follow-up findings. The surgical intervention often provides a more direct and effective approach. This case contributes to the body of knowledge surrounding the management of this complex disease.

Acute Coiling With Delayed Flow Diversion for Posterior Communicating Segment Internal Carotid Artery Aneurysms: A Multicenter Case Series

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

In ruptured posterior communicating artery (PcomA) aneurysms, the protection of the aneurysm dome alone with initial subtotal coiling decreases the risk of rerupture in the acute setting but does not provide durable/definitive long-term protection against delayed rupture. Delayed flow diverter (FD) placement can be a potential alternative to definitively secure these aneurysms without increasing the risk of complications and PComA occlusion. We analyzed PComA aneurysms treated with a planned delayed FD after primary coiling and assess radiographic and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of prospectively collected data for intracranial aneurysms treated with planned FD at 2 institutions from 2013 to 2022. PComA aneurysms that underwent primary coiling and delayed FD placement were included for analysis.

RESULTS

There were 29 PComA aneurysms identified that were included in the analysis. Patients were mostly female (79.3%), with a median age of 60 years. The mean aneurysm maximum diameter was 7.2 mm ± (5.3). Immediate Raymond-Roy occlusion grade after primary coiling was I in 48.3%, II in 41.4%, and III in 10.3% of aneurysms. The median time from initial coiling to planned delayed FD placement was 6.3 months (3.2-18.6). A total of 21 (72.4%) aneurysms underwent follow-up radiological imaging. Complete and near-complete occlusion status was achieved in 76.2% of the evaluated aneurysms. There were no retreatments and no evidence of delayed aneurysm rupture. One case (3.5%) presented thromboembolic complications and 1 (3.5%) intracranial hemorrhagic complication after FD placement, which was associated with mortality. Most patients (90.5%) had a modified Rankin scale of ≤2 on the last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Primary coiling with planned staged FD placement is effective for treating ruptured PComA aneurysms with high occlusion rates and low complications.

Degrees of macrophage-facilitated healing in aneurysm occlusion devices

Insufficient healing of aneurysms following treatment with vascular occlusion devices put patients at severe risk of fatal rupture. Therefore, promoting healing and not just occlusion is vital to enhance aneurysm healing. Following occlusion device implantation, healing is primarily orchestrated by macrophage immune cells, ending with fibroblasts depositing collagen to stabilize the aneurysm neck and dome, preventing rupture. Several modified occlusion devices are available currently on-market. Previous in vivo work demonstrated that modifications of occlusion devices with a shape memory polymer foam had enhanced aneurysm healing outcomes. To better understand cellular response to occlusion devices and improve aneurysm occlusion device design variables, we developed an in vitro assay to isolate prominent interactions between devices and key healing players: macrophages and fibroblasts. We used THP-1 monocyte derived macrophages and human dermal fibroblasts in our cell culture models. Macrophages were allowed device contact with on-market competitor aneurysm occlusion devices for up to 96 h, to allow for any spontaneous device-driven macrophage activation. Macrophage secreted factors were captured in the culture media, in response to device-specific activation. Fibroblasts were then exposed to device-conditioned macrophage media (with secreted factors alone), to determine if there were any device-induced changes in collagen secretion. Our in vitro studies were designed to test the direct effect of devices on macrophage activation, and the indirect effect of devices on collagen secretion by fibroblasts to promote aneurysm healing and stabilization. Over 96 h, macrophages displayed significant migration toward and interaction with all tested devices. As compared to other devices, shape memory polymer foams (SMM, Shape Memory Medical) induced significant changes in gene expression indicating a shift toward an anti-inflammatory pro-healing M2-like phenotype. Similarly, macrophages in contact with SMM devices secreted more vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) compared with other devices. Macrophage conditioned media from SMM-contacted macrophages actively promoted fibroblast secretion of collagen, comparable to amounts observed with exogenous stimulation via VEGF supplementation. Our data indicate that SMM devices may promote good aneurysm healing outcomes, because collagen production is an essential step to ultimately stabilize an aneurysm.

Long-term outcomes of surgical clipping of saccular middle cerebral artery aneurysms: a consecutive series of 92 patients

Despite advances in endovascular treatment, microsurgical clipping of middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms remains appropriate. We review the high occlusion rate and treatment durability seen with surgical clipping of MCA aneurysms. We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent microsurgical clipping of saccular MCA aneurysms by a single surgeon. Outcomes included aneurysm occlusion rate and durability, modified Rankin scale (mRS), and postoperative neurological morbidities. Ninety-two patients with 92 saccular MCA aneurysms were included, 50% of which were ruptured aneurysms. The mean follow-up period was 59 months. Complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved in all except one patient (99%) with near-complete occlusion. MCA aneurysm clipping was durable, with only one patient (1%) requiring retreatment after 4 years due to regrowth. Of the cohort, 79.3% achieved mRS 0-2 at last follow-up, including all with unruptured aneurysms. Poor outcome at discharge was associated with age > 65 (p = .03), postoperative neurological morbidities (p = .006), and aneurysm rupture (p < .001). Older age remained the single correlate for poor long-term outcome (p = .04). For ruptured aneurysms, predictors of poor long-term outcome included hemiparesis on presentation (p = .017), clinical vasospasm requiring treatment (p = .026), and infarction related to vasospasm (p = .041). Older age (p = .046) and complex anatomy (p = .036) were predictors of new postoperative neurological morbidities in the unruptured group. MCA aneurysm clipping is safe, durable, and should be considered first-line treatment for patients with saccular MCA aneurysms, especially in centers with abundant surgical experience.

A shift from open to endovascular repair in the treatment of ruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms: a single institution experience

PURPOSE

Middle cerebral aneurysms were underrepresented in the two largest trials (BRAT and ISAT) for the treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Recent institutional series addressing the choice between endovascular or open repair for this subset of aneurysms are few and have not yielded a definitive conclusion. We compare clinical outcomes of patients presenting with acute subarachnoid hemorrhage from ruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms undergoing either open or endovascular repair.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 138 consecutive patients with ruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms admitted into our institution from January 2008 to March 2019 to compare endovascular and open surgical outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the ruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms, 57 underwent endovascular repair while 81 were treated with open surgery. Over the study period, there was a notable shift in practice toward more frequent endovascular treatment of ruptured MCA aneurysms (31% in 2008 vs. 91% in 2018). At discharge (49.1% vs 29.6%; p = .002) and at 6 months (84.3% vs 58.6%; p = 0.003), patients who underwent endovascular repair had a higher proportion of patients with good clinical outcomes (mRS 0-2) compared to those undergoing open surgery. Long-term follow-up data (endovascular 54.9 ± 37.9 months vs clipping 18.6 ± 13.4 months) showed no difference in rebleeding (1.8% vs 3.7%, p = 0.642) and retreatment (5.3% vs 3.7%, p = 0.691) in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Our series suggests equipoise in the treatment of ruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms and demonstrates endovascular repair as a potentially feasible treatment strategy. Future randomized trials could clarify the roles of these treatment modalities.

A comparison of treating physician versus independent core lab assessments of post-aneurysm treatment imaging outcomes: an analysis of prospectively collected data from a randomized trial

OBJECTIVE

Aneurysm occlusion has been used as surrogate marker of aneurysm treatment efficacy. Aneurysm occlusion scales are used to evaluate the outcome of endovascular aneurysm treatment and to monitor recurrence. These scales, however, require subjective interpretation of imaging data, which can reduce the utility and reliability of these scales and the validity of clinical studies regarding aneurysm occlusion rates. Use of a core lab with independent blinded reviewers has been implemented to enhance the validity of occlusion rate assessments in clinical trials. The degree of agreement between core labs and treating physicians has not been well studied with prospectively collected data.

METHODS

In this study, the authors analyzed data from the Hydrogel Endovascular Aneurysm Treatment (HEAT) trial to assess the interrater agreement between the treating physician and the blinded core lab. The HEAT trial included 600 patients across 46 sites with intracranial aneurysms treated with coiling. The treating site and the core lab independently reviewed immediate postoperative and follow-up imaging (3-12 and 18-24 months, respectively) using the Raymond-Roy occlusion classification (RROC) scale, Meyer scale, and recanalization survey. A post hoc analysis was performed to calculate interrater reliability using Cohen's kappa. Further analysis was performed to assess whether degree of agreement varied on the basis of various factors, including scale used, timing of imaging, size of the aneurysm, imaging modality, location of the aneurysm, dome-to-neck ratio, and rupture status.

RESULTS

Minimal interrater agreement was noted between the core lab reviewers and the treating physicians for assessing aneurysm occlusion using the RROC grading scale (k = 0.39, 95% CI 0.38-0.40) and Meyer scale (k = 0.23, 95% CI 0.14-0.38). The degree of agreement between groups was slightly better but still weak for assessing recanalization (k = 0.45, 95% CI 0.38-0.52). Factors that significantly improved degree of agreement were scales with fewer variables, greater time to follow-up, imaging modality (digital subtraction angiography), and wide-neck aneurysms.

CONCLUSIONS

Assessment of aneurysm treatment outcome with commonly used aneurysm occlusion scales suffers from risk of poor interrater agreement. This supports the use of independent core labs for validation of outcome data to minimize reporting bias. Use of outcome tools with fewer point categories is likely to provide better interrater reliability. Therefore, the outcome assessment tools are ideal for clinical outcome assessment provided that they are sensitive enough to detect a clinically significant change.

2023 Guideline for the Management of Patients With Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Guideline From the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association

AIM

The "2023 Guideline for the Management of Patients With Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage" replaces the 2012 "Guidelines for the Management of Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage." The 2023 guideline is intended to provide patient-centric recommendations for clinicians to prevent, diagnose, and manage patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

METHODS

A comprehensive search for literature published since the 2012 guideline, derived from research principally involving human subjects, published in English, and indexed in MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline, was conducted between March 2022 and June 2022. In addition, the guideline writing group reviewed documents on related subject matter previously published by the American Heart Association. Newer studies published between July 2022 and November 2022 that affected recommendation content, Class of Recommendation, or Level of Evidence were included if appropriate. Structure: Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is a significant global public health threat and a severely morbid and often deadly condition. The 2023 aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage guideline provides recommendations based on current evidence for the treatment of these patients. The recommendations present an evidence-based approach to preventing, diagnosing, and managing patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, with the intent to improve quality of care and align with patients' and their families' and caregivers' interests. Many recommendations from the previous aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

Impact of aneurysm diameter, angulation, and device sizing on complete occlusion rates using the woven endobridge (WEB) device: Single center United States experience

BACKGROUND

The Woven EndoBridge device is a novel treatment option for wide-necked bifurcation intracranial aneurysms (WNBA). While this device has had good results, there remains a subset of WNBA that fail this treatment. The main objective of this study is to identify risk factors that are associated with incomplete occlusion of WEB treated aneurysms at short-term follow up.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 31 patients with intracranial aneurysms who were treated with WEB at a single institution in the USA in 2019-2021. Data was collected via chart review on patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, procedural details, and occlusion status at six months follow up. Bivariate analyses were performed comparing completely occluded aneurysms with neck remnants and residual aneurysms.

RESULTS

16 (52%) had completely occluded aneurysms while 11 (35%) patients had a neck remnant, and 4 (13%) patients had a residual aneurysm at follow up. Patients with neck remnants and residual aneurysms had aneurysms with a larger diameter. A large aneurysm diameter is an independent risk factor for incomplete occlusion (OR 4.23 95% CI 1.08-16.53 P value = 0.038). Patients with residual aneurysms had an average difference between the aneurysm width and WEB diameter of -0.08mm compared to 1.2 mm in patients with occluded aneurysms. 75% of patients with a residual aneurysm presented with a ruptured aneurysm. Lastly, more patients with a residual aneurysm had an immediate angiographic outcome of incomplete occlusion.

CONCLUSION

Larger aneurysms are at risk for incomplete occlusion status post WEB treatment. Larger, ruptured aneurysms with minimal difference in aneurysm and WEB diameter that fail to occlude immediately post-treatment are more likely to present as residual aneurysms at short-term follow up.

Endovascular and Medical Management of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

Unruptured intracranial aneurysms are often discovered incidentally on noninvasive imaging. As use of noninvasive imaging has increased, our understanding of the presumed prevalence of intracranial aneurysms in adults has increased. Incidentally found aneurysms are often asymptomatic; however, they can rarely rupture and cause life-threatening illness. Elective treatment of intracranial aneurysms carries risks which need to be considered along with patient-specific factors (e.g., anatomy, medical comorbidities, personal preferences). In this article, we review the natural history, risk factors for cerebral aneurysm formation and rupture, evidence for medical management, and the safety profile and efficacy of available endovascular treatment options.

Study and modeling of the thrombosis of small cerebral aneurysms, with and without flow diverter, by the lattice Boltzmann method

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Small cerebral aneurysms are currently commonly treated non-invasively by flow diverter device. These stents lead to thrombotic occlusion of the aneurysm soon after their placement. The purpose of this work is to model clotting into intracranial aneurysms with and without stents, using a non-Newtonian of blood behavior, and to investigate the importance of stent to generate desired thrombus in intracranial aneurysms.

METHOD

The description of blood flow is made by the Boltzmann lattice equations, while thrombosis is modeled by the "fluid age" model. The lattice Boltzmann method is a computational technique for simulating fluid dynamics. The method is based on a mesoscopic approach, where the fluid is represented by a set of particles that move and interact on a grid. The model for blood coagulation is described by lattice Boltzmann Method, and it doesn't take into account the complicated coagulation pathway, this main idea is developed using the model of residence time of blood: all fluid in the domain is assumed to be capable of clotting, given enough time. The fluid age is measured by a passive scalar using a transport equation, and the node coagulates if the fluid age increases enough. Three small aneurysms of different sizes and shapes with three stents of various porosities were used to test the ability of the model to predict thrombosis. The "occlusion rate" parameter is used to assess the effectiveness of the flow diverter device.

RESULTS

For the large aspect ratio factor, the occlusion is: 91% for flow diverter devise with seven struts. For medium aspect ratio, a rate of 80% is achieved. An occlusion rate of slightly more than 30% is obtained for very small aneurysms with low aspect ratio. The Newtonian model underestimates the volume of thrombosis generated. The difference in the prediction of the thrombosis volume between the Newtonian and no-Newtonian Carreau-Yasuda models is approximately 10%.

CONCLUSION

The occlusion rate is proportional to the aspect ratio form factor. For the large and medium aspect ratio factors, the occlusion is satisfactory. Concerning very small aneurysms with low aspect ratio, aneurysm occlusion is low. This rate can be improved to almost complete occlusion if the flow diverter device is doubled. The generality of the model suggests its extensibility toward any other type of thrombosis (stenosis, thrombosis in aortic aneurysms).

Risk of intracranial aneurysm recurrence after microsurgical clipping based on 3D digital subtraction angiography

OBJECTIVE

Current knowledge of recurrence rates after intracranial aneurysm (IA) surgery relies on 2D digital subtraction angiography (DSA), which fails to detect more than 75% of small aneurysm remnants. Accordingly, the discrimination between recurrence and growth of a remnant remains challenging, and actual assessment of recurrence risk of clipped IAs could be inaccurate. The authors report, for the first time, 3D-DSA-based long-term durability and risk factor data of IA recurrence and remnant growth after microsurgical clipping.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data for 305 patients, with a total of 329 clipped IAs that underwent baseline 3D-DSA, were evaluated. The incidence of recurrent IA was described by Kaplan-Meier curves. Risk factors for IA recurrence were analyzed by multivariable Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression models.

RESULTS

The overall observed proportion of IA recurrence after clipping was 2.7% (9 of 329 IAs) at a mean follow-up of 46 months (0.7% per year). While completely obliterated IAs did not recur during follow-up, incompletely clipped aneurysms (76 of 329) demonstrated remnant growth in 11.8% (3.4% per year). Young age and large initial IA size significantly increased the risk of IA recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings support those in previous studies that hypothesized that completely clipped IAs have an extremely low risk of recurrence. Conversely, the results highlight the significant risk posed by incompletely clipped IAs. Young patients with initial large IAs and incomplete obliteration have an especially high risk for IA recurrence and therefore should be monitored more closely.

Single-Energy Metal Artifact Reduction (SEMAR) in Ultra-High-Resolution CT Angiography of Patients with Intracranial Implants

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of single-energy metal artifact reduction (SEMAR) on image quality of ultra-high-resolution CT-angiography (UHR-CTA) with intracranial implants after aneurysm treatment.

METHODS

Image quality of standard and SEMAR-reconstructed UHR-CT-angiography images of 54 patients who underwent coiling or clipping was retrospectively evaluated. Image noise (i.e., index for metal-artifact strength) was analyzed in close proximity to and more distally from the metal implant. Frequencies and intensities of metal artifacts were additionally measured and intensity-differences between both reconstructions were compared in different frequencies and distances. Qualitative analysis was performed by two radiologists using a four-point Likert-scale. All measured results from both quantitative and qualitative analysis were then compared between coils and clips.

RESULTS

Metal artifact index (MAI) and the intensity of coil-artifacts were significantly lower in SEMAR than in standard CTA in close vicinity to and more distally from the coil-package (p < 0.001, each). MAI and the intensity of clip-artifacts were significantly lower in close vicinity (p = 0.036; p < 0.001, respectively) and more distally from the clip (p = 0.007; p < 0.001, respectively). In patients with coils, SEMAR was significantly superior in all qualitative categories to standard images (p < 0.001), whereas in patients with clips, only artifacts were significantly less (p < 0.05) for SEMAR.

CONCLUSION

SEMAR significantly reduces metal artifacts in UHR-CT-angiography images with intracranial implants and improves image quality and diagnostic confidence. SEMAR effects were strongest in patients with coils, whereas the effects were minor in patients with titanium-clips due to the absent of or minimal artifacts.

Radiological follow-up of endovascularly treated intracranial aneurysms: a survey of current practice in the UK and Ireland

PURPOSE

Due to the risk of intracranial aneurysm (IA) recurrence and the potential requirement for re-treatment following endovascular treatment (EVT), radiological follow-up of these aneurysms is necessary. There is little evidence to guide the duration and frequency of this follow-up. The aim of this study was to establish the current practice in neurosurgical units in the UK and Ireland.

METHODS

A survey was designed with input from interventional neuroradiologists and neurosurgeons. Neurovascular consultants in each of the 30 neurosurgical units providing a neurovascular service in the UK and Ireland were contacted and asked to respond to questions regarding the follow-up practice for IA treated with EVT in their department.

RESULTS

Responses were obtained from 28/30 (94%) of departments. There was evidence of wide variations in the duration and frequency of follow-up, with a minimum follow-up duration for ruptured IA that varied from 18 months in 5/28 (18%) units to 5 years in 11/28 (39%) of units. Young patient age, previous subarachnoid haemorrhage and incomplete IA occlusion were cited as factors that would prompt more intensive surveillance, although larger and broad-necked IA were not followed-up more closely in the majority of departments.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a wide variation in the radiological follow-up of IA treated with EVT in the UK and Ireland. Further standardisation of this aspect of patient care is likely to be beneficial, but further evidence on the behaviour of IA following EVT is required in order to inform this process.

Comparison of staged-stent and stent-assisted coiling technique for ruptured saccular wide-necked intracranial aneurysms: Safety and efficacy based on a propensity score-matched cohort study

Background

Application of stent-assisted coiling and FD in acute phase of ruptured wide-necked aneurysms is relatively contraindicated due to the potential risk of ischemic and hemorrhagic complications. Scheduled stenting after initial coiling has emerged as an alternative paradigm for ruptured wide-necked aneurysms. The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a strategy of staged stent-assisted coiling in acutely ruptured saccular wide-necked intracranial aneurysms compared with conventional early stent-assisted coiling strategy via propensity score matching in a high-volume center.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients with acutely ruptured saccular wide-necked intracranial aneurysms who underwent staged stent-assisted coiling or conventional stent-assisted coiling from November 2014 to November 2019 was performed. Perioperative procedure-related complications and clinical and angiographic follow-up outcomes were compared.

Results

A total of 69 patients with staged stent-assisted coiling and 138 patients with conventional stent-assisted coiling were enrolled after 1:2 propensity score matching. The median interval time between previous coiling and later stenting was 4.0 weeks (range 3.5-7.5 weeks). No rebleeding occurred during the intervals. The rate of immediate complete occlusion was lower with initial coiling before scheduled stenting than with conventional stent-assisted coiling (21.7 vs. 60.9%), whereas comparable results were observed at follow-up (82.5 vs. 72.9%; p = 0.357). The clinical follow-up outcomes, overall procedure-related complications and procedure-related mortality between the two groups demonstrated no significant differences (P = 0.232, P = 0.089, P = 0.537, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that modified Fisher grades (OR = 2.120, P = 0.041) were independent predictors for overall procedure-related complications and no significant predictors for hemorrhagic and ischemic complications.

Conclusions

Staged stent-assisted coiling is a safe and effective treatment strategy for acutely ruptured saccular wide-necked intracranial aneurysms, with comparable complete occlusion rates, recurrence rates at follow-up and overall procedure-related complication rates compared with conventional stent-assisted coiling strategy. Staged stent-assisted coiling could be an alternative treatment option for selected ruptured intracranial aneurysms in the future.

WEB Treatment of Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms: Long-Term Follow-up of a Single-Center Cohort of 100 Patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The Woven EndoBridge device (WEB) was introduced for the intrasaccular treatment of wide-neck aneurysms without the need for adjunctive devices. We used the WEB as a primary treatment for 100 ruptured aneurysms regardless of neck size or location. In this study, we present the long-term follow-up of 78 surviving patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between February 2015 and April 2017, one hundred ruptured aneurysms were treated with the WEB. For surviving patients, angiographic and clinical follow-up was scheduled at 3 months, and 3T MRA and clinical follow-up, at 6, 12, 36, and 60 months. Of 100 patients, 18 died during hospital admission, and in 4, the ruptured aneurysm was additionally treated. The remaining 78 patients had a mean follow-up of 51 months (median, 52 months; range, 5-84 months). There were 57 women and 21 men, with a mean age of 58.5 years (median, 59 years; range, 24-80 years). Of 78 aneurysms with long-term follow-up, 52 (66%) had a wide neck.

RESULTS

Of 78 ruptured aneurysms, 56 (72%) remained completely occluded and 17 (22%) had a stable small neck remnant. Five of 78 aneurysms (6%; 95% CI, 2.4%-14.5%) reopened during follow-up and were additionally treated. There were no rebleeds during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of ruptured aneurysms with the WEB was safe and effective and has long-term results comparable with those of simple coiling of small-neck aneurysms. The WEB proved to be a valuable alternative to coils for both wide- and small-neck ruptured aneurysms without the need for stents, balloons, or antiplatelet therapy.

[Microsurgical and endovascular treatment of residual and recurrent cerebral aneurysms]

Cerebral aneurysms are characterized by high risk of adverse outcome due to severe intracranial hemorrhages and their consequences. Aneurysm remnants after incomplete exclusion can cause hemorrhage. Filling of these fragments immediately after surgery is usually defined as residual aneurysms. Recurrent aneurysms develop in the area of excluded aneurysm in long-term period after surgery. The authors analyze foreign and national literature data on the diagnosis and management of residual and recurrent aneurysms. Risk factors, the most common classifications, diagnostic methods and surgical treatment are presented.

Coil Embolization with Subsequent Subacute Flow Diversion Before Hospital Discharge as a Treatment Paradigm for Ruptured Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Subtotal coil embolization followed by subsequent flow diversion is often pursued for treatment of acutely ruptured aneurysms. Owing to the need for anti-platelet therapy, the optimal time of safely pursuing flow diversion treatment has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we aim to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of staged treatment of acutely ruptured aneurysms with early coil embolization followed by flow diversion prior to discharge.

METHODS

A retrospective study to evaluate clinical outcomes of patients who presented with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and underwent coil embolization followed by subacute flow diversion treatment during the same hospitalization.

RESULTS

A total of 18 patients are included in our case series. Eight patients presented with Hunt-Hess (H-H) grade 2 bleed, 6 patients with H-H grade 3, and 2 patients each with H-H grade 4 and H-H grade 1. Eight patients required placement of an external ventricular drain on admission. After initial coil embolization, 12 achieved Raymond-Roy grade 2 occlusion, and 6 attained grade 3a/b occlusion. The mean duration between coil embolization and subsequent flow diversion was 9.83 days (range: 1-30). There were no instances of re-hemorrhage between initial coil embolization and subsequent flow diversion treatment. Sixteen patients had a minimum of 6-month follow-up, of which 15 were found to have complete occlusion, and 1 required subsequent clipping.

CONCLUSIONS

Subtotal coil embolization followed by definitive treatment using flow diversion during the same hospitalization is feasible and achieves excellent aneurysm occlusion rates while avoiding dual anti-platelet therapy during the initial hemorrhage period.

Incidence rate and predictors of recurrent aneurysms after clipping: long-term follow-up study of survivors of subarachnoid hemorrhage

Recurrent aneurysms are a major cause of re-aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), but information on long-term clip durability and predictors is insufficient. This study aimed to present the incidence rate of > 10 years and investigate predictors of a recurrent aneurysm in aSAH survivors. We included 1601 patients admitted with aSAH and treated by microsurgical clipping between January 1993 and May 2010. Of these patients, 435 aSAH survivors were included in this study (27.2%). The total follow-up time was 5680.9 patient-years, and the overall incidence rate was 0.77% per patient-year. The cumulative probability of recurrence without residua and regrowth of the neck remnant was 0.7% and 13.9% at 10 years, respectively. Neck remnant (hazard ratio [HR], 10.311; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.233-20.313) and alcohol consumption over the moderate amount (HR, 3.166; 95% CI, 1.313-7.637) were independent risk factors of recurrent aneurysm. Current smoking and multiplicity at initial aSAH presentation were significant factors in a univariate analysis. Furthermore, de novo intracranial aneurysms (DNIAs) were more common in the recurrent group than in the non-recurrent group (40.9% vs. 11.5%, P < 0.001). In the present study, we noted the long-term clip durability and predictor of recurrence after microsurgical clipping. These findings can assist clinicians in identifying patients at a high risk of recurrent aneurysm and recommending selective long-term surveillance after microsurgical clipping.

Risk factors for repeated recurrence of cerebral aneurysms treated with endovascular embolization

Purpose

To explore the risk factors of recurrence after second endovascular embolization of recurrent aneurysms and the characteristics of recurrent refractory aneurysms to help clinical decision-making.

Materials and methods

Forty-nine patients with recurrent aneurysms who underwent repeated embolization were retrospectively enrolled and divided into the recurrent and non-recurrent group. The risk factors of recurrence, complications and follow-up results of repeated embolization, and characteristics of recurrent refractory aneurysms were analyzed.

Results

Among the 49 patients with the second embolization, 5 were lost to follow-up, 9 recurred, and 35 did not. Univariate analysis showed that aneurysm size (P = 0.022), aneurysm classification (P = 0.014), and Raymond-Roy grade after the second embolization (P = 0.001) were statistically different between the two groups. Multivariate analysis demonstrated the Raymond-Roy grade as an independent risk factor for the recurrence of aneurysms after the second embolization (P = 0.042). The complication rate after the second embolization was 4%. There were five recurrent refractory aneurysms with an average aneurysm size of 23.17 ± 10.45 mm, including three giant aneurysms and two large aneurysms. To achieve complete or near-complete embolization of the recurrent refractory aneurysms, multiple treatment approaches were needed with multiple stents or flow diverting devices.

Conclusion

Aneurysm occlusion status after the second embolization is an independent risk factor for the recurrence of intracranial aneurysms. Compared with near-complete occlusion, complete occlusion can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence after second embolization. In order to achieve complete or near-complete occlusion, recurrent refractory aneurysms need multiple treatments with the use of multiple stents or flow diverting devices.

Intrasaccular flow disruption for brain aneurysms: a systematic review of long-term outcomes

OBJECTIVE

The long-term safety and efficacy of intrasaccular flow disruption (IFD) for the treatment of brain aneurysms remain unclear. With accumulating experience and increasing use of IFD devices, recent studies have provided additional data regarding their outcomes. This review summarizes the long-term outcomes of IFD-treated brain aneurysms.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed on May 23, 2021, in PubMed, Web of Science, and Ovid MEDLINE for aneurysm treatment outcomes with IFD devices. Procedural details, including use of adjunctive devices and complications, were collected. The quality of studies was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Angiographic outcomes were classified as complete occlusion, residual neck, and residual aneurysm. Other outcomes included need for retreatment, permanent neurological deficit, and mortality. Pooled analyses were performed.

RESULTS

The final analysis comprised 1217 patients with 1249 aneurysms from 22 studies. The mean aneurysm diameter and neck width were 6.9 and 4.5 mm, respectively, and 27.6% of aneurysms were ruptured. The complete occlusion rates at 12 months and final follow-up (pooled mean duration 15.7 months) were 50.1% and 58.2%, respectively. Adjunctive devices were used in 6.4% of cases. The rates of hemorrhage, symptomatic infarction, permanent neurological deficit, and mortality were 1.2%, 2.8%, 1.0%, and 2.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

IFD is a very safe treatment for appropriately selected brain aneurysms with low complication and neurological deterioration rates. However, complete occlusion is achieved in only half of IFD-treated aneurysms at 1 year with a modest increase beyond this time point. As the majority of the studies were single arm, the pooled data are subject to selection and reporting biases. Future device developments, increased operator experience, and direct comparisons with alternative endovascular strategies and surgical clipping may clarify the role of IFD in aneurysm management.

Intrasaccular Flow Disruptor-Assisted Coiling of Intracranial Aneurysms Using the Novel Contour Neurovascular Systems and NEQSTENT: A Single-Center Safety and Feasibility Study

Background: Intrasaccular flow disruptors (IFD) have been introduced in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) to overcome the low aneurysm occlusion rate and the high recanalization rate of the coiling technique. Among them, the Contour Neurovascular System (CNS) and the Neqstent (NQS) were designed to reconstruct the aneurysmal neck and both can be used as assisting coiling devices. We aimed to report our preliminary experience with the flow disruptor-assisted coiling (IFD-AC) technique. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of all patients with IAs treated with the IFD-AC. Results: Between February 2021 and April 2022, we treated 15 IAs with the IFD-AC: 10 ruptured and 5 unruptured. The IFD-AC was successfully performed in 13 cases, with a post-operative RROC 1 in 12 cases (92.3%) and RROC 2 in 1 case (7.7%). There was one ischemic event (6.7%) and no hemorrhagic complications. Twelve patients underwent a mid-term radiologic follow-up: Ten IAs (83.4%) presented an adequate occlusion, while 2 (16.7%) had a recurrence. Conclusions: The IFD-AC, both with the CNS and the NQS, seems a safe technique with promising efficacy profile. The IFD-AC has proved to be safe without antiplatelet therapy in ruptured cases. Further studies are needed to confirm our preliminary results.

Staged treatment for ruptured wide-neck intracranial aneurysm with intentional partial coiling in the acute phase followed by definitive treatment

Background:

Evidence supports endovascular coiling for ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIAs). However, in some cases, it is difficult to achieve complete occlusion by coiling, such as with wide-neck aneurysms. We report our experience with intentional staged RIA treatment using targeted endovascular coiling at the rupture point in the acute phase, followed by delayed stent-assisted coiling, flow diverter stenting, or surgical clipping.

Methods:

Consecutive patients with RIAs treated between April 2015 and June 2021 were retrospectively investigated. Clinical characteristics, treatment complications, and patient outcomes data were collected.

Results:

Among 108 RIAs treated in our hospital, 60 patients underwent initial coiling; 10 patients underwent staged treatment. The aneurysm locations were the anterior communicating artery (n = 5), internal carotid-posterior communicating artery (n = 3), internal carotid-paraclinoid (n = 1), and vertebral artery-posterior inferior cerebellar artery (n = 1). The mean ± standard deviation aneurysmal diameter was 9.6 ± 5.4 mm and the mean aspect ratio was 1.2 ± 0.7. As the second treatment to obliterate blood flow to the neck area, we performed five stent-assisted coiling, two flow-diverter stentings, and three surgical clippings. Only one minor perioperative complication occurred. The median duration between the first and second treatments was 18 days (range, 14– 42 days). Good clinical outcome (modified Rankin scale score 0–2) at 90 days was achieved in 5 (50%) cases. The median follow-up duration was 6.5 months (range, 3–35 months); no rerupture occurred.

Conclusion:

Intentional staged treatment with a short time interval for RIA was effective and feasible.