Balloon remodeling technique in endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms

Abstract

Objectives: Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms demonstrates low rates of morbidity and mortality. However, aneurysms with complex forms and wide neck remain a therapeutic challenge. The aim of this study is to evaluate the endovascular management of a series of intracranial aneurysms using the balloon remodeling technique. Method: A retrospective evaluation was performed on patients with intracranial aneurysms having undergone endovascular treatment with balloon remodeling technique at the Instituto de Neurologia de Curitiba (from October, 2006 to June, 2011). Results: Thirty-four patients were evaluated. The mean age was 55.12 years and 78.79% were female. Thirteen patients had ruptured aneurysms (38.24%) and 8 had vasospasm (23,53%). The majority of the aneurysms (61.76%) had domemeasurements between 5 to 15mm and 41.18% had a neck size of greater than or equal to 4mm. Total occlusion was obtained in 29 aneurysms (85,29%) and partial occlusion in 2 (5.88%). One patient died from a procedure-related hemorrhage. Conclusion: Endovascular treatment with balloon remodeling techniques seems to be a safe and effective treatment for intracranial aneurysms, especially those with complex formsand wide neck.