Mean Aneurysm Size Research Articles

Distance from the midline to the aneurysm as simple predictor of ischemic complication with small unruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysm surgery

BackgroundThis study aimed to clarify the risk factors for postoperative cerebral infarction in surgical clipping for prevalent small middle cerebral artery aneurysms (MCA Ans). MethodsThis retrospective study included 246 patients (mean age, 64.8 ± 10.0 years; 25.6 % males, 74.4 % females) with 258 aneurysms (mean aneurysm size, 5.4 ± 2.4 mm) who underwent direct surgery for unruptured MCA Ans at our institution from January 2015 to December 2020. All surgeries were performed under general anesthesia, incorporating indocyanine green videoangiography and transcranial motor-evoked potentials to enhance surgical precision and safety. The occurrence of surgery-related cerebral infarction was evaluated using postoperative CT scans within one week, comparing them with preoperative images. Patients were categorized based on the presence or absence of postoperative stroke and were analyzed for age, sex, past medical history, aneurysm size, number of clips used, and distance from the midline to the aneurysm. ResultsSeventeen patients had postoperative cerebral infarction (6.6 %, symptomatic 6, asymptomatic 11). There were no significant differences in terms of age, number of clips, or aneurysm size between the two groups; however, the distance from the midline to the aneurysm was significantly shorter in the stroke group (27.1 ± 4.7 mm; p < 0.001), with a cutoff value of 29 mm using the receiver operating characteristic curve. ConclusionSurgical clipping for MCA Ans presents a high risk of cerebral infarction for aneurysms located closer to the midline, emphasizing the importance of considering aneurysm location as a risk indication in surgical clipping.

Safety and Efficacy of Coil Embolization for Endoleak Prevention as an Adjunct to Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm or Subsequently for Repair of Endoleak

This study assessed the real-world safety and efficacy of coil embolization during endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) for prophylactic endoleak prevention or as a reintervention for endoleak repair, using the Cerenovus family of coils (Cerenovus, Irvine, CA, USA). This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients who underwent embolization of branching arteries during EVAR of an AAA, or as a reintervention for endoleak repair, using Cerenovus coils between January 2017 and December 2021 in Japan. The primary outcome was 30-day reintervention-free survival, defined as cardiovascular mortality or any complication requiring reintervention within 30 days post procedure. Secondary outcomes included conversion to open surgical repair; length of hospitalization; and the following outcomes through 30 days and 1-year post procedure: occurrence of endoleak (Type I-V), reintervention, complications not requiring reintervention, aneurysm-related mortality, coil migration, and all-cause mortality. A total of 306 patients (mean age 76.7±7.8; 16.7% [51/306] female) were included in the study. Infrarenal AAA were most common (175/306; 57.2%), and the mean aneurysm size was 52.1±10.9 mm. At 30 days, reintervention-free survival was achieved in 96.4% (295/306) of patients; 9 (2.9%) patients required reintervention, and 2 (0.7%) died from cardiovascular causes through 30 days. One (1/305; 0.3%) patient underwent conversion to open repair. The mean length of hospitalization was 8.6±7.2 days. Complications not requiring reintervention occurred in 3.9% (12/306) of patients through 30-days and 12.4% (38/306) through 1-year. Endoleak occurred in 2.9% (9/306) of patients at 30 days and 9.5% (29/306) at 1 year. Coil migration and aneurysm rupture were not reported for any patient. Aneurysm-related mortalities occurred in 0.0% (0/305) at 30 days and 0.3% (1/303) at 1 year. All-cause mortalities occurred in 0.7% (2/306) at 30 days and 3.3% (10/304) at 1 year. This study demonstrated that the use of Cerenovus coils yielded a high rate of 30-day-reintervention-free survival and low rates of type II endoleak occurrence and recurrence at the target vessel through 30 days and 1 year in patients following EVAR of an AAA with coil embolization, either for prophylactic endoleak prevention during EVAR or as a reintervention to repair an endoleak.

Endovascular versus open repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms with hostile neck anatomy

ObjectiveAneurysm neck anatomy in ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAAs) is often complex, limiting the feasibility of endovascular repair (EVAR). The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of EVAR and open surgical repair (OSR) for treatment of rAAAs in patients with hostile neck anatomy (HNA). The secondary aim was to review the clinical characteristics and anatomic risk factors predictive of mortality. MethodsA multi-center retrospective review was performed to identify patients with rAAAs and HNA between 2004 and 2021. HNA was defined as infrarenal aortic neck diameter >28 mm, infrarenal neck length <15 mm or angulation >60 degrees. The primary end point was 30-day all-cause mortality. Secondary end points included 90-day, 1-year and 5-year mortality. Preoperative computed tomography was analyzed using an Aquarius workstation. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to assess variables that influenced survival. Results137 patients with rAAAs and HNA underwent infrarenal EVAR or OSR. Overall mean age was 74 ± 10 years and 72% were male. 85 patients (62%) underwent infrarenal EVAR and 52 (38%) underwent OSR. Mean aneurysm size at the time of rupture was 86 ± 22 mm. Patients who underwent OSR were more likely to present with a higher Garland preoperative risk score (P = .05), have a lower pH (P < .001), lower SBP (P < .001) and higher lactate (P = .005). Patients with an infrarenal neck length <15 mm were more likely to undergo OSR (EVAR 64% vs. OSR 87%, P = .004) and patients with an infrarenal neck angle >60 degrees were more likely to undergo EVAR (60% vs. 39%, P = .01). EVAR was associated with lower 30-day (17% vs. 27%; OR 0.6; 95% CI, 0.3-1.2; P = .14) and 90-day (22% vs. 33%; HR 0.6; 95% CI, 0.3-1.2; P = .17) all-cause mortality, however, this was not statistically significant. The overall median follow-up time was 19 (2-66) months. 1-year survival for EVAR and OSR were 75% and 64% (Log-rank P = .14) and 5-year survival for EVAR and OSR were 65% and 55% (Log-rank P = .28). Hemoglobin (P = .009), increasing calcification score (P = .002) and infrarenal neck length <10 mm (P = .01) were associated with all-cause mortality at 30-days for EVAR on multivariate Cox regression analysis. Lactate (P <.001) was the only variable associated with all-cause mortality at 30-days for OSR on multivariate Cox analysis. ConclusionEarly and long-term survival favored EVAR in comparison to OSR in patients with rAAAs and HNA, however, this was not statistically significant. Calcification of the infrarenal neck and neck length <10 mm were associated with increased 30-day mortality for EVAR while no anatomic variables were specifically associated with 30-day mortality for OSR.

Lessons learned from 12 years using the Woven Endobridge for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms in a multi-center series

Intrasaccular flow disruption with the Woven Endobridge (WEB) has become a well-established endovascular technique for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. This study presents our 12-year experience with the WEB and evaluates its evolving indications, procedures, and outcomes. A consecutive series of 324 aneurysms treated with WEB between 2011 and 2023 at three neurovascular centers was retrospectively analyzed and the study group was divided into four treatment periods. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate factors associated with technical success, thromboembolic complications, and angiographic outcome. The mean aneurysm size was 7.0 ± 3.6 mm and decreased during the study period, while the proportion of atypical sites for WEB implantation increased. WEB implantation was technically successful in 96.0%, and the ratio of WEB width to dome width increased during the study period, indicating oversizing. The neurological complication rate was 4.9% (1.5% major, 3.4% minor) and the mid-term complete occlusion rate was 60.6% (81.9% adequate occlusion), with no statistical differences in either outcome measure between the study periods. In multivariate analyses, the use of WEB 17 was associated with increased technical success (HR: 7.4, 95%CI: 2.4-23.6, p<0.01), whereas ruptured aneurysm status (HR: 2.5, 95%CI: 1.0-6.0, p=0.04) and the use of additional stents (HR: 4.8, 95%CI: 1.6-14.4, p<0.01) predicted thromboembolic complications. Appropriate oversizing of the WEB favored mid-term complete occlusion (HR: 10.5, 95%CI: 1.3-83.3, p=0.03). The results suggest an expansion of the indications for WEB implantation and highlight the importance of oversizing for treatment efficacy.

Location specific rupture risk of intracranial aneurysms: case of ophthalmic aneurysms

BackgroundAneurysm location is a key element in predicting the rupture risk of an intracranial aneurysm. A common impression suggests that pure ophthalmic aneurysms are under-represented in ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIAs)....

Initial Experience with the New DERIVO® Mini Embolisation Device for the Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms.

The aim of this study is to present the outcomes of cerebral aneurysm treatment with the DERIVO® mini Embolisation Device (DMD), which is compatible with microcatheters with 0.021-inch inner diameters. Consecutive patients treated with DMD were identified retrospectively. Patient and aneurysm characteristics, procedural findings, clinical outcomes and follow-up imaging results were evaluated. A total of 44 target aneurysms in 30 patients were treated with DMD. The mean age of the patients was 49.9 (range, 4-77 years). Four patients with five aneurysms presented with acute subarachnoid hemorrhage. The mean aneurysm size was 6.8 mm (range, 1.5-22 mm). In 29 (65.9%) aneurysms, adjunctive devices were used for endovascular treatment. The overall mortality rate was 3.3% and procedure-related mortality was 0%. Overall neurologic morbidity was 6.6% and none of the patients had a permanent sequela secondary to the procedure. The mean clinical follow-up period was 20.9 months (range, 3 days-46 months) and the mean DSA follow-up period was 10.9 months. A total of 37 (84.1%) aneurysms demonstrated total occlusion (Raymond-Roy [RR 1]); 3 (6.8%) aneurysms had a neck remnant or infundibular filling at the origin of the jailed side branch (RR 2), 4 (9.1%) aneurysms had residual aneurysm filling (RR 3). For those aneurysms treated with bare DMD, the total occlusion rate was 73.3% at a mean follow-up of 16.1 months. In this initial clinical single-center experience, DMD had a good safety profile and efficacy comparable with the currently used flow diverters.

Inequalities for women diagnosed with distal arch and descending thoracic aortic aneurysms: results from the Effective Treatments for Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms (ETTAA) cohort study.

Women with thoracic aortic aneurysms within the arch or descending thoracic aorta have poorer survival than men. Sex differences in relative thoracic aortic aneurysm size may account for some of the discrepancy. The aim of this study was to explore whether basing clinical management on aneurysm size index (maximum aneurysm diameter/body surface area) rather than aneurysm size can restore equality of survival by sex. The Effective Treatments for Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms (ETTAA; ISRCTN04044627) study was a prospective, observational cohort study. Adults referred to National Health Service hospitals in England with new/existing arch or descending thoracic aorta aneurysms greater than or equal to 4 cm in diameter were followed from March 2014 to March 2022. Baseline characteristics and survival to intervention and overall were compared for men and women. Survival models were used to assess the association between all-cause survival and sex, with and without adjustment for aneurysm diameter or aneurysm size index. A total of 886 thoracic aortic aneurysm patients were recruited: 321 (36.2%) women and 565 (63.8%) men. The mean(s.d.) aneurysm diameter was the same for women and men (5.7(1.1) versus 5.7(1.2) cm respectively; P = 0.751), but the mean(s.d.) aneurysm size index was greater for women than for men (3.32(0.80) versus 2.83(0.63) respectively; P < 0.001). Women had significantly worse survival without intervention: 110 (34.3%) women and 135 (23.9%) men (log rank test, P < 0.001). All-cause mortality remained greater for women after adjustment for diameter (HR 1.65 (95% c.i. 1.35 to 2.02); P < 0.001), but was attenuated after adjustment for aneurysm size index (HR 1.11 (95% c.i. 0.89 to 1.38); P = 0.359). Similar results were found for all follow-up, with or without intervention, and findings were consistent for descending thoracic aorta aneurysms alone. Guidelines for referral to specialist services should consider including aneurysm size index rather than diameter to reduce inequity due to patient sex.

Perianeurysmal vasogenic oedema (PAVO): A single centre 10-year retrospective review.

Perianeurysmal Vasogenic Oedema (PAVO) is a rare but important complication of endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Many potential risk factors have been identified including age, aneurysm size, aneurysm location, immunological profile, type of coil used, diabetes, hypertension, and smoking. PAVO can cause persistent post-procedural symptoms, subsequently increasing post-embolization morbidity. A 10-year retrospective review was conducted between 2011 and 2021 at Royal Preston Hospital, Preston, UK. We identified 8 patients that fit our inclusion criteria. This included 6 (75%) females and 2 (25%) males. The mean age was 64. All patients had anterior circulation aneurysms with the middle cerebral artery (MCA) being the most common site. The mean aneurysm size was 12mm. Our patients were managed with a range of endovascular techniques. One patient had pre-treatment PAVO while 7 patients had post-embolization PAVO. Five patients were symptomatic, and 3 cases were asymptomatic with only radiological evidence of PAVO. Five patients were managed with varying courses of dexamethasone. PAVO resolution was achieved in 4 cases. The oedema significantly improved in 3 cases, but transiently progressed in 1 case. PAVO is a rare but important complication of endovascular management of intracranial aneurysms. We have shown that patients can be effectively managed with steroids with resultant oedema regression and symptomatic improvement. Many risk factors have been associated with PAVO, but further research is needed to better understand their role in PAVO development and help develop other therapeutic options.

One-hundred Consecutive Physician-Modified Fenestrated Endovascular Aneurysm Repair of Pararenal and Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms Using the Terumo TREO Stent Graft

ObjectiveFenestrated endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (FEVAR) has been widely applied for the treatment of pararenal (PAA) and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA). If custom-made devices or off-the-shelf devices are not available, physician-modified endografts (PMEG) are an alternative device option. Several different endograft platforms have been used for PMEG; however, minimal data exists on utilizing the Terumo TREO Abdominal stent-graft system in this setting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate our single-center experience treating PAA and TAAA with a physician-modified FEVAR using the TREO platform. MethodsA prospective database of consecutive patients with PAA and TAAA treated at a single-center with a FEVAR utilizing a PMEG device between March 2021 and September 2023 was queried for those having a Terumo TREO device implanted. Demographics, operative details, and postoperative complications were analyzed. Rates of technical success, type I or III endoleak, branch vessel status, reintervention, and 2-year survival were also assessed. ResultsOf the 153 patients who underwent FEVAR with a PMEG device during the study period, 100 had repair using a Terumo TREO stent-graft. The mean age of the cohort was 73.7±7.0years with the majority suffering from hypertension (n=94, 94%), coronary artery disease (n=51, 51%), and COPD (n=40, 40%). Thirty-four patients (34%) had a prior failed EVAR device in place. Mean aneurysm size was 66.0±13.7mm, with 58 (50%) patients classified as PAA and 30 (30%) patients as an extent IV TAAA. Six (6%) patients presented with symptomatic/ruptured aneurysms. The average number of target arteries incorporated per patient was 3.8±0.6. Overall technical success was 99%, procedure time was 218±116 minutes, contrast volume was 82±21mL, and cumulative air kerma was 3,054±1,560mGy. Postoperative complications were present in 20 patients (20%) and 2 patients (2%) died within 30-days. Rates of type I or III endoleak, branch vessel stenosis/occlusion, and reintervention were 2%, 1%, and 7%, respectively. Two-year overall survival was 87%. ConclusionsTreatment of pararenal and extent IV TAAA using a physician-modified fenestrated Terumo TREO endograft is safe and effective. This large, early experience using the Terumo TREO platform supports preferential use of this device in this setting due to the device design and low likelihood of type I or III endoleak.

Follow-up care compliance among patients diagnosed with unruptured intracranial aneurysms

ObjectivesPeriodic imaging follow-up for patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA) is crucial, as studies indicate higher rupture risk with aneurysm growth. However, few studies address patient adherence to follow-up recommendations. This study aims to identify compliance rates and factors influencing follow-up adherence. MethodsPatients with a UIA were identified from our institution's database from 2011-2021. Follow-up imaging (CT/MR Angiogram) was advised at specific intervals. Patients were categorized into compliant and non-compliant groups based on first-year compliance. Factors contributing to compliance were assessed through multivariate logistic regression. Phone interviews were conducted with non-compliant patients to understand reasons for non-adherence. ResultsAmong 923 UIA diagnosed patients, 337 were randomly selected for analysis. The median follow-up period was 1.4 years, with a 42% first-year compliance rate. The mean aneurysm size was 3.3 mm. Five patients had a rupture during follow-up, of which 4 died. Compared with patients consulting specialists at the initial diagnosis, those seen by non-specialists exhibited lower compliance (OR 0.25, p < 0.001). Loss to follow-up was greatest during transition from emergency service to specialist appointments. Patients who spoke languages other than English exhibited poorer compliance than those speaking English (OR 0.20, p = 0.01). ConclusionsSignificant amounts of UIA patients at low rupture risk were lost to follow-up before seeing UIA specialists. Main non-compliance factors include inadequate comprehension of follow-up instructions, poor care transfer from non-specialists to specialist, and insurance barriers.

FRED X flow diverter for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms: Two-center experience and mini-review of the literature.

The flow re-direction endoluminal device (FRED) is a safe and effective treatment option for intracranial aneurysms. The novel FRED X features an antithrombotic surface coating ("X Technology") on an otherwise unmodified stent design. This two-center study evaluates the clinical safety and efficacy of FRED X and compares it to the literature. Consecutive patients treated between 2020 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed for aneurysm characteristics, procedural details and complications, and angiographic outcomes. A mini-review of the literature for FRED X clinical trials was performed and results were pooled using a random effects model. Thirty-four patients (mean age 56 years) were treated for 34 aneurysms. The mean aneurysm size was 7.7 ± 5.0 mm, 7 (21%) were ruptured, 6 (18%) were recurrent after previous treatment, 11 (32.3%) were located in the posterior circulation, and 4 (12.5%) had non-saccular morphology. All procedures were technically successful and no balloon angioplasty was required. There was 1 (2.9%) symptomatic complication (a transient ischemic attack) and no procedural morbidity or mortality. Technical asymptomatic events included 1 procedural stent occlusion that was reopened with thrombectomy and 3 cases of vasospasm. Complete and adequate occlusion rates were 68% (19/28) and 89% (25/28) at a mean follow-up time of 6 months, respectively. The results of this study are comparable to previous FRED X studies. The results demonstrate a high feasibility and procedural safety of the FRED X with adequate mid-term occlusion rates. Long-term and comparative studies are needed to evaluate the full potential of the FRED X.

Efficacy and safety of transcatheter arterial embolization of omental artery aneurysm: A single-center experience.

Omental artery aneurysm (OAA) is an extremely rare visceral artery aneurysm. Ruptured OAAs are associated with a high mortality rate. Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) has been used to treat OAA in recent years. However, the risk of omental ischemia due to TAE remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of TAE of OAA as a first-line treatment. Fifteen patients with true aneurysms or pseudoaneurysms who underwent OAA-TAE between 1 April 2010 and 31 December 2022 were included in this study. The technical and clinical outcomes, the incidence of omental infarction after TAE as a major complication, OAA-TAE techniques, radiological findings on computed tomography angiography and angiogram, and patient characteristics were evaluated. Fifteen patients (nine men, six women; age, 69.8 ± 18.59 years) underwent TAE of OAAs (mean aneurysm size of 9.30 ± 6.10 mm) located in the right gastroepiploic (n = 9), left gastroepiploic (n = 1), and epiploic (n = 5) arteries. All patients with ruptured (n = 6) and unruptured (n = 9) OAA successfully underwent TAEs using coils, n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate, or gelatin sponges. Hepatic artery thrombosis and coil migration were observed during the procedure; however, these adverse events were manageable. Transfusion of red blood cell units (4.66 ± 1.63 units) was required only in cases with ruptured OAAs after TAE. Additional surgery or TAE due to rupture or rerupture of OAA and omental infarction was not required during the postoperative and follow-up periods. The OAA-TAE can effectively treat ruptured and unruptured OAAs, and the risk of omental infarction after OAA-TAE may not be high.

Use of physician-modified inverted limb in conjunction with Zenith fenestrated stent graft to rescue failed previous endovascular and open repair

ObjectiveTo evaluate outcomes and performance of inverted limbs (ILs) when used in conjunction with Zenith fenestrated stent grafts (Zfens) to treat patients with short distance between the lowest renal artery (RA) and aortic or graft bifurcation (A/GB). MethodsThis study was a multicenter, retrospective review of prospectively maintained database of patients with complex aortic aneurysms, failed endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), or open surgical repair (OSR) with short distance between LRA and A/GB treated using a combination of Zfen and an IL between 2013 and 2023. Endpoints included technical success, aneurysm sac regression, long-term device integrity, and target vessel patency. We defined technical success as implantation of the device with no endoleak, conversion to an aorto-uni-iliac or OSR. ResultsDuring this time, 52 patients underwent endovascular rescue of failed repair. Twenty (38.5%) of them required relining of the failed repairs using IL due to lowest RA to A/GB length restrictions. Two patients had undergone rescue with a fenestrated cuff alone but developed type III endoleaks. One patient with no previous implant had a short distance between the lowest RA and aortic bifurcation to accommodate the bifurcated distal device, and two patients had failed OSR or anastomotic pseudoaneurysms. The majority (94%) were men with a mean age of 76.8 ± 6.1 years. The mean aortic neck diameter and aneurysm size were 32 ± 4 cm and 7.2 ± 1.3 cm, respectively. The median time laps between initial repair and failure was 36 months (interquartile range [IQR], 24-54 months). Sixteen patients (80%) were classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists class III, whereas four were class IV. Seventy-eight vessels were targeted and successfully incorporated. Technical success was 100%, and median estimated blood loss was 100 mL (IQR, 100-200 mL). Mean fluoroscopy time and dose were 61 ± 18 minutes and 2754 ± 1062 mGy, respectively. Average hospital length of stay was 2.75 ± 2.15 days. Postoperative complication occurred in one patient who required lower extremity fasciotomy for compartment syndrome. At a median follow-up of 50 months (IQR, 18-58 months), there were no device migration, components separation, aneurysmal related mortality, and type I or type III endoleak. Aneurysm sac regression (95%) or stabilization (5%) was observed in all patients, including in four patients (25%) with type II endoleak. ConclusionsThe use of IL in conjunction with Zfen to treat patients with short distance between the lowest RA and A/GB is safe, effective, and has excellent long-term results. The technique expands the indication of Zfen, especially in patients with failed previous EVAR.

Influence of size ratio on retreatment after coil embolization for unruptured bifurcation aneurysms

BackgroundAneurysm size is considered a risk factor for aneurysm rupture, and even small aneurysms may rupture, especially bifurcation aneurysms (BAs), which are occasionally detected. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the predictors of retreatment after coil embolization for unruptured BAs, with a particular focus on the absolute and relative size of the aneurysm (size ratio [SR]). MethodsTo evaluate the predictors of retreatment, patients were divided into two groups: those with and those without retreatment. Patient characteristics and radiographic assessments were compared between the groups. SR was defined as the ratio of the maximum aneurysm diameter and the average diameter of the parent artery. ResultsOverall, 181 unruptured BAs in 176 patients were investigated. The mean age of the patients was 63.8 ± 9.6 years. The mean aneurysm size and SR were 7.18 ± 2.94 mm and 2.49 ± 1.32, respectively. Further, 12 aneurysms with retreatment (6.6 %) and 169 aneurysms without retreatment were compared. In univariate analysis, SR was significantly higher in the group with retreatment (P = 0.02), but aneurysm size was not significantly different between the groups (P = 0.09). Multivariable analysis revealed that SR > 2.6 was a significant predictor of retreatment (P = 0.03; odds ratio: 10.41; 95 % confidence interval: 2.1–51.73). ConclusionsThis study showed that SR influences retreatment after coil embolization for unruptured BAs. Therefore, if the aneurysm size and parent artery diameter were small, as in cases with a large SR, meticulous follow-up after coil embolization is required to detect recurrence and recanalization.

Abstract 174: Treatment of Unruptured Saccular Aneurysms with PED: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Long‐Term Outcomes

Introduction The Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) is commonly used for intracranial aneurysm treatment. While its effectiveness for certain types of aneurysms is well‐established, its efficacy for saccular aneurysms remains debatable. This review and meta‐analysis aimed to assess the long‐term outcomes of PED treatment for unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA). Methods A systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Studies with at least one year of follow‐up after PED treatment for saccular aneurysms were included. The primary endpoint was angiographic complete aneurysm occlusion at long‐term (≥ 12 mo.) follow‐up. Secondary outcomes included long‐term complications. We conducted a meta‐regression analysis to explore the potential sources of heterogeneity across studies. Results Eleven studies on 594 patients with 726 aneurysms were included, of which 5% were previously treated. The mean age was 55.7 years, and 78.3% were women. The mean aneurysm size was 7.72 mm, 8.95% were treated with more than one device, and 2.9% had adjunct coiling. The long‐term complete occlusion rate was 81% (CI 95%: 72% to 88%, p&lt;0.01). Regarding long‐term complications, the rate of symptomatic ischemic stroke was 1% (CI 95%: 0% to 4%, p=0.07), the rate of delayed rupture was 1% (95%, CI 0% to 3%, p=0.02), and the rate of intracranial hemorrhage was 3% (CI 95%: 1% to 6%, p=0.81). The meta‐regression analysis revealed a decreasing trend per year for aneurysmal occlusion, ischemic stroke rate, and aneurysmal rupture rate over time and an increasing trend for ICH over time. Conclusion PED demonstrates high long‐term occlusion and low complication rates, suggesting it is a safe and effective treatment option for unruptured intracranial saccular aneurysms. However, studies with greater than 5‐10 years of follow‐up are needed to evaluate the clinical and radiographical outcomes of incompletely occluded aneurysms Additionally, as newer devices exhibit reduced thrombogenic profiles and ICH rates increase over time, reevaluation of antiplatelet therapy's role, including dosage and DAPT, is warranted.

Microsurgical strategies for small unruptured dorsal internal carotid artery aneurysms.

This study aimed to develop microsurgical strategies based on the anatomical relationship between dorsal internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms, the falciform ligament (FL), and the anterior clinoid process (ACP). Between 2017 and 2022, 25 patients with unruptured dorsal ICA aneurysms (less than 4 mm in diameter) underwent microsurgical direct clipping. These cases involved the left ICA (n=17) and the right ICA (n=8), with a mean aneurysm size of 3.3 mm (range, 2.5 to 4 mm). We used computed tomography angiography (CTA) and digital subtraction angiography to elucidate the anatomical relationship between dorsal ICA aneurysms and other structures. All procedures involved an ipsilateral pterional approach with securement of the ipsilateral cervical ICA for proximal control. Among the 25 dorsal ICA aneurysms, 8 (32%) were clipped without the FL being incised. Another 5 (20%) were clipped solely after the FL was cut. For the remaining 12 cases, the aneurysms were successfully clipped following FL incision and partial ACP removal. Patients exhibited favorable postoperative recoveries with good outcomes, and postoperative CTA revealed complete aneurysm clipping without any residual remnants. Conclusions: We were able to perform clipping without removing the ACP in 13 patients (52%), and in 8 of these (32%), the clipping was carried out directly without cutting the FL. Microsurgery, coupled with proximal control of the cervical ICA, can serve as a viable alternative for patients with small dorsal ICA aneurysms, especially when endovascular treatment options are limited, and 3D CTA confirms a clear anatomical relationship with the ACP.

Renal angiomyolipoma: Beyond size criteria for predicting rupture.

Renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs) are vascular tumours that while histologically benign, carry a risk of rupture and potentially life-threatening haemorrhage. Selective arterial embolisation (SAE) has been demonstrated as effective treatment; however, given most tumours are asymptomatic, the challenge facing the radiologist is selection of which AML should undergo treatment. This study considers presence and size of intratumoural aneurysm, to advance the readers treatment decision-making beyond historical size criteria. Retrospective cohort analysis of all SAE-treated AML at a quaternary-level institution in the last 10 years was completed independently by two radiologists. Computerised tomography (CT) and angiographic imaging were reviewed to evaluate tumour size, presence of intratumoural aneurysm and aneurysm size. Univariant and multivariant statistical analyses were used to identify predictors of spontaneous rupture and haemorrhage. Twenty-seven renal AML underwent SAE. Five tumours had presented with haemorrhage. Twenty-two were asymptomatic or without CT/angiographic detectable haemorrhage. There was no statistically significant size difference between ruptured (mean 7.8 cm, range 6.1-12.0 cm) and unruptured AML (7.5 cm, 3.3-21.7 cm) in the study population. Eighty percent of ruptured AML and 27% of unruptured AML contained at least one intratumoural aneurysm (P-value < 0.05). Mean aneurysm size in ruptured AMLs was 5.4 mm, versus 4.6 mm among unruptured AML (P-value > 0.05). The presence of intratumoural aneurysm is a useful predictor for AMLs that are at risk of spontaneous rupture and haemorrhage. Intratumoural aneurysm should therefore be considered when selecting patients to undergo SAE.

A comparison of Atlas and Leo Baby stents-assisted coiling of intracranial aneurysms with small parent vessels.

Between January 2019 and November 2022, 56 patients at our centre were treated using either Atlas or Leo Baby SAC of intracranial aneurysms arising from small parent vessels (<2mm). The clinical and angiographic imaging data of the two cohorts were retrospectively collected and comparatively analyzed. A total of 56 patients were included in this study. Thirty-two patients were treated with the Atlas SAC, and 24 patients were treated with the Leo Baby SAC. The mean age of the Atlas stent cohort was older, and the mean aneurysm size was smaller than the Leo Baby stent. The immediate complete occlusion rate was 68.6% in the Atlas stent cohort and 62.5% in the Leo Baby stent cohort. The mean angiographic follow-up time for Atlas stent cohort was 8.9±2.5 months, and the final aneurysm complete occlusion rate was 81.0%. The mean follow-up time for Leo Baby stent cohort was 18.9±6.0 months, and the final aneurysm complete occlusion rate was 83.3%. At the final follow-up, the Atlas or the Leo baby stent SAC of intracranial aneurysms with small parent vessels resulted in favourable angiographic results and clinical outcomes, with a low rate of associated complications.

The financial burden associated with endovascular repair of thoracoabdominal and pararenal aortic aneurysms using physician-modified fenestrated-branched endografts

Objective/BackgroundEndovascular thoracoabdominal and pararenal aortic aneurysm repair is more complex and requires more devices than infrarenal aneurysm repair. It is unclear if current reimbursement covers the cost of delivering this more advanced form of vascular care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the economics of fenestrated-branched (FB-EVAR) physician-modified endograft (PMEG) repairs. MethodsWe obtained technical and professional cost and revenue data for four consecutive fiscal years (July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2021) at our quaternary referral institution. Inclusion criteria were patients who underwent PMEG FB-EVAR in a uniform fashion by a single surgeon for thoracoabdominal/pararenal aortic aneurysms. Patients in industry-sponsored clinical trials or receiving Cook Zenith Fenestrated grafts were excluded. Financial data were analyzed for the index operation. Technical costs were divided into direct costs that included devices and billable supplies and indirect costs including overhead. Results62 patients (79% male, mean age: 74 years, 66% thoracoabdominal aneurysms) met inclusion criteria. The mean aneurysm size was 6.0 cm, the mean total operating time was 219 minutes, and the median hospital length of stay was 2 days. PMEGs were created with a mean number of 3.7 fenestrations, using a mean of 8.6 implantable devices per case. The average technical cost per case was $71,198, and the average technical reimbursement was $57,642, providing a net negative technical margin of $13,556 per case. Of this cohort, 31 patients (50%) were insured by Medicare remunerated under diagnosis-related group code 268/269. Their respective average technical reimbursement was $41,293, with a mean negative margin of $22,989 per case, with similar findings for professional costs. The primary driver of technical cost was implantable devices, accounting for 77% of total technical cost per case over the study period. The total operating margin, including technical and professional cost and revenue, for the cohort during the study period was negative $1,560,422. ConclusionsPMEG FB-EVAR for pararenal/thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms produces a substantially negative operating margin for the index operation driven largely by device costs. Device cost alone already exceeds total technical revenue and presents an opportunity for cost reduction. In addition, increased reimbursement for FB-EVAR, especially among Medicare beneficiaries, will be important to facilitate patient access to such innovative technology.

Flow Diverter Performance in Aneurysms Arising From the Posterior Communicating Artery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Flow diverters (FDs) have demonstrated a safe and effective profile. However, the use of FDs for posterior communicating artery (PComA) aneurysms remains controversial. To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of FDs for PComA aneurysms using a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature. We performed a systematic search from inception until June 2022 for flow diversion in PComA aneurysms. Primary effectiveness was the rate of complete aneurysm occlusion defined by Raymond-Roy class 1. Primary safety outcomes were treatment-related ischemic/hemorrhagic (composite) events causing morbidity and mortality. Secondary safety was PComA patency at follow-up. Random-effects meta-analyses were used to calculate proportions, and statistical heterogeneity was assessed. A total of 13 studies with 397 patients harboring 403 aneurysms were included. Mean age was 48 years, and the mean aneurysm size was 5.3 mm. Most aneurysms were unruptured (65%). Complete occlusion at final follow-up was 73% (CI 66%-79%), and adjunctive coils were used in 10% of aneurysms. Retreatment rate was 2% (CI 0%-9%). The primary safety composite outcome was 4% (CI 3%-7%), and mortality was 1%. PComA patency at final follow-up was 76% (CI 57%-89%). Subgroup analysis, patients with fetal PComAs had a lower complete occlusion rate (42% fetal PComA vs 77%, psubgroupdifference = <.01). The performance of FDs in PComA aneurysms is comparable with outcomes found in other subtypes of supraclinoid aneurysms. Effectiveness was acceptable and safety favorable. However, effectiveness was suboptimal in patients with fetal-type PComAs; alternative treatments should be considered in these cases.