Preliminary Experience With Proximal Flow Reversal During Intracranial Balloon Angioplasty and Stenting for Symptomatic, Severe Intracranial Stenosis

Abstract

Abstract INTRODUCTION The frequency of balloon-angioplasty and stenting for symptomatic intracranial stenosis was drastically reduced after publication of the negative SAMMPRIS trial. In part, this was due to a higher than expected periprocedural complication rate (14.7% 30-d stroke or death) compared to maximal medical therapy (5.8%). Although the cause of periprocedural stroke was not defined, intraprocedural artery-to-artery embolism is a likely contributor. The Silk Road ENROUTE Transcarotid Neuroprotection System (TCNS) was designed as an alternative revascularization strategy for carotid bifurcation disease. It provides direct transcarotid access and proximal protection through flow reversal. We adapted this system as a proximal protection strategy for balloon angioplasty and stenting of severe, symptomatic intracranial stenosis. METHODS From May-2017 to May-2019, 7 patients underwent intracranial balloon angioplasty and stenting for symptomatic intracranial stenosis using the TCNS. Baseline demographics, comorbidities, procedure-related parameters, and outcomes were assessed. RESULTS A total of 7 patients (mean age 63, SEM 4.7 yr, 57% female) with severe (84% +/− 5%) supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) and/or M1 stenosis presented with recurrent strokes (86% left sided) despite dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). Angiographically, cessation or reversal of flow was seen in the supraclinoid ICA in all patients, with confirmation by transcranial doppler in selected cases, after the institution of flow reversal by the TCNS. A noncompliant balloon was used to perform submaximal angioplasty, followed by stenting with intracranial stents. All procedures were technically successful with no evidence of periprocedural thromboembolic complications. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 12 mo. One patient suffered a fatal reperfusion hemorrhage on POD 3. One patient suffered from a minor recurrent stroke at 7 mo (after the cessation of DAPT) and was restarted on DAPT. CONCLUSION Traditional methods of intracranial balloon angioplasty and stenting suffer from high periprocedural ischemic stroke rates. TCNS can be adapted to provide a means of proximal protection during the treatment of these high-risk lesions. This procedural innovation warrants further investigation.