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OBJECTIVE Catheter-based cerebral angiography is commonly used for neurovascular diagnosis in children. In this work, the authors aimed to quantify the complication rate of cerebral angiography in children, characterize these complications, and identify risk factors for complications. METHODS Relevant clinical data were retrospectively obtained for 587 consecutive cerebral angiography procedures performed in 390 children from March 2002 to March 2020. Complications were categorized as neurological or nonneurological, and severity was graded using a standard schema. Incidences of complications were reported as point estimates. Associations between risk factors and complications were characterized in univariate analysis using the two-tailed Fisher exact test and in multivariate analysis using multiple logistic regression with bidirectional elimination based on the Akaike information criterion. In both univariate and multivariate analyses, statistical significance was corrected for multiple comparisons using the Benjamini-Hochberg method. RESULTS Complications occurred in 6.5% of procedures, including neurological complications in 1.9% and nonneurological complications in 4.8%. Permanent deficits occurred in only 0.2% of cases. Overall, 0.5% of procedures resulted in major complications, while 6.0% resulted in minor complications. Female sex and a history of hypertension or ischemic stroke were associated with an increased risk of complications, while femoral artery access was associated with a decreased risk of complications. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric cerebral angiography was shown to have a low rate of major or permanent complications. Children who were female and those with a history of hypertension or ischemic stroke were shown to be at higher risk of complications, while the use of femoral access carried a lower risk of complications.

Despite some success in secondary brain metastases, targeted or immune-based therapies have shown limited efficacy against primary brain malignancies such as glioblastoma (GBM). Although the intratumoral heterogeneity of GBM is implicated in treatment resistance, it remains unclear whether this diversity is observed within brain metastases and to what extent cancer cell–intrinsic heterogeneity sculpts the local immune microenvironment. Here, we profiled the immunogenomic state of 93 spatially distinct regions from 30 malignant brain tumors through whole-exome, RNA, and T-cell receptor sequencing. Our analyses identified differences between primary and secondary malignancies, with gliomas displaying more spatial heterogeneity at the genomic and neoantigen levels. In addition, this spatial diversity was recapitulated in the distribution of T-cell clones in which some gliomas harbored highly expanded but spatially restricted clonotypes. This study defines the immunogenomic landscape across a cohort of malignant brain tumors and contains implications for the design of targeted and immune-based therapies against intracranial malignancies. Significance: This study describes the impact of spatial heterogeneity on genomic and immunologic characteristics of gliomas and brain metastases. The results suggest that gliomas harbor significantly greater intratumoral heterogeneity of genomic alterations, neoantigens, and T-cell clones than brain metastases, indicating the importance of multisector analysis for clinical or translational studies. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1

Background The benefit of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) before mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke is uncertain. Conventional metrics of final modified thrombolysis in cerebral ischemia (mTICI) score and 90-d modified Rankin Scale may be insensitive to IVT effects on procedural complexity and duration. Objective To study the effect of IVT prior to MT on clot survival. Methods We performed a single-center retrospective analysis of 257 acute stroke patients with LVO undergoing MT and analyzed the effect of IVT prior to MT using a novel, pass-by-pass clot survival methodology. Results The use of IVT was associated with a significantly lower number of passes to attain mTICI 2B or greater (P = .002) or mTICI 3 (P = .039) reperfusion. The number of patients who achieved mTICI 2B or greater after the first pass was significantly higher in the IVT group (P = .003). This increased rate of reperfusion persisted into subsequent passes. Conclusion IVT prior to MT reduces the number of thrombectomy passes required to achieve mTICI 2B or mTICI 3 reperfusion. This information should be considered as the merits of IVT prior to MT are debated.

Background Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is the standard of care for the treatment of proximal anterior circulation large vessel occlusions. However, little is known about its efficacy and safety in the treatment of distal intracranial occlusions. Methods This is a multicenter retrospective study of patients treated with MT at 15 comprehensive centers between January 2015 and December 2018. The study cohort was divided into 2 groups based on the location of occlusion (proximal vs. distal). Distal occlusion was defined as occlusion of M3 segment of the middle cerebral artery, any segment of the anterior cerebral artery, or any segment of the posterior cerebral artery. Only isolated distal occlusion was included. Good outcome was defined as 90-day modified Rankin scale score 0–2. Results A total of 4710 patients were included in this study, of whom 189 (4%) had MT for distal occlusions. Compared with the proximal occlusion group, distal occlusion group had a higher rate of good outcome (45% vs. 36%; P = 0.03) and a lower rate of successful reperfusion (78% vs. 84%; P = 0.04). However, the differences did not retain significance in adjusted models. Otherwise there was no difference in the rate of hemorrhagic complications, mortality, or procedure-related complications between the 2 groups. Successful reperfusion, age, and admission stroke severity emerged as predictors of good functional outcome in the distal occlusion group. Conclusions Thrombectomies of distal vessels achieve high rate of successful reperfusion with similar safety profile to those in more proximal locations.

Background and purpose Flow diversion of aneurysms located in the M1 segment and middle cerebral artery bifurcation with Pipeline embolization device is sometimes performed, but further study is needed to support its regular use in aneurysm treatment. Here, we report measures of safety and efficacy for Pipeline embolization in the proximal middle cerebral artery in a multi-center cohort. Materials and methods Clinical and angiographic data of eligible patients were retrospectively obtained from participating centers and assessed for key clinical and angiographic outcomes. Additional details were extracted for patients with complications. Results In our multi-center cohort, complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 71% (17/24) of treated aneurysms. There were no deaths or disabling strokes, but non-disabling ischemic strokes occurred in 8% (2/24) of patients. For aneurysms in the M1 segment, complete aneurysm occlusion was observed in 75% (12/16) of aneurysms, aneurysm volume reduction was observed in 100% (16/16) of aneurysms, and non-disabling ischemic strokes occurred in 13% (2/16) of patients. For aneurysms at the middle cerebral artery bifurcation, complete aneurysm occlusion was observed in 63% (5/8) of aneurysms, aneurysm volume reduction occurred in 88% (7/8) of aneurysms, and ischemic or hemorrhagic complications occurred in 0% (0/8) of patients. Conclusion Pipeline embolization of cerebral aneurysms in the M1 segment and middle cerebral artery bifurcation demonstrated a 71% rate of complete aneurysm occlusion. There were no deaths or disabling strokes, but there was an 8% rate of non-disabling ischemic strokes.

Background and purpose Flow diversion is commonly used to treat intracranial aneurysms in various regions of the cerebral vasculature, but is only approved for use in the internal carotid arteries. Treatment of distal PICA aneurysms with PED is sometimes performed but has not been well studied. Here, we report our experience with flow diversion of distal PICA aneurysms with PED. Materials and methods Clinical and angiographic data of eligible patients was retrospectively obtained and assessed for key demographic characteristics and clinical and angiographic outcomes. Principal outcomes included rates of aneurysm occlusion, ischemic or hemorrhagic complication, technical complication, and in-stent stenosis. Results Three female and 2 male patients underwent placement of PED in the PICA for treatment of 5 distal PICA aneurysms. Clinical and angiographic follow-up was obtained for all patients. Complete aneurysm occlusion was observed in 100% (5/5) of treated aneurysms at 6 month and longest angiographic follow-up. While there were no ischemic or device-related complications, delayed hemorrhagic complications occurred in 20% (1/5) of patients. Conclusion Pipeline embolization of distal PICA aneurysms can be performed in select patients. Further study is necessary in larger cohorts to better define clinical scenarios in which flow diversion in the distal PICA should be considered.

Background and Purpose:Early brain injury may be a more significant contributor to poor outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) than vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia. However, studying this process has been hampered by lack of a means of quantifying the spectrum of injury. Global cerebral edema (GCE) is the most widely accepted manifestation of early brain injury but is currently assessed only through subjective, qualitative or semi-quantitative means. Selective sulcal volume (SSV), the CSF volume above the lateral ventricles, has been proposed as a quantitative biomarker of GCE, but is time-consuming to measure manually. Here we implement an automated algorithm to extract SSV and evaluate the age-dependent relationship of reduced SSV on early outcomes after aSAH.Methods:We selected all adults with aSAH admitted to a single institution with imaging within 72 hours of ictus. Scans were assessed for qualitative presence of GCE. SSV was automatically segmented from serial CTs using a deep learning-based approach. Early SSV was the lowest SSV from all early scans. Modified Rankin Scale score of 4 to 6 at hospital discharge was classified as a poor outcome.Results:Two hundred forty-four patients with aSAH were included. Sixty-five (27%) had GCE on admission while 24 developed it subsequently within 72 hours. Median SSV on admission was 10.7 mL but frequently decreased, with minimum early SSV being 3.0 mL (interquartile range, 0.3–11.9). Early SSV below 5 mL was highly predictive of qualitative GCE (area under receiver-operating-characteristic curve, 0.90). Reduced early SSV was an independent predictor of poor outcome, with a stronger effect in younger patients.Conclusions:Automated assessment of SSV provides an objective biomarker of GCE that can be leveraged to quantify early brain injury and dissect its impact on outcomes after aSAH. Such quantitative analysis suggests that GCE may be more impactful to younger patients with SAH.

BackgroundRadial artery access for transarterial procedures has gained recent traction in neurointerventional due to decreased patient morbidity, technical feasibility, and improved patient satisfaction. Upper extremity transvenous access (UETV) has recently emerged as an alternative strategy for the neurointerventionalist, but data are limited. Our objective was to quantify the use of UETV access in neurointerventions and to measure failure and complication rates.MethodsAn international multicenter retrospective review of medical records for patients undergoing UETV neurointerventions or diagnostic procedures was performed. We also present our institutional protocol for obtaining UETV and review the existing literature.ResultsOne hundred and thirteen patients underwent a total of 147 attempted UETV procedures at 13 centers. The most common site of entry was the right basilic vein. There were 21 repeat puncture events into the same vein following the primary diagnostic procedure for secondary interventional procedures without difficulty. There were two minor complications (1.4%) and five failures (ie, conversion to femoral vein access) (3.4%).ConclusionsUETV is safe and technically feasible for diagnostic and neurointerventional procedures. Further studies are needed to determine the benefit over alternative venous access sites and the effect on patient satisfaction.

OBJECTIVEDelayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is characterized by large-artery vasospasm, distal autoregulatory dysfunction, cortical spreading depression, and microvessel thrombi. Large-artery vasospasm has been identified as an independent predictor of poor outcome in numerous studies. Recently, several animal studies have identified a strong protective role for inhalational anesthetics against secondary brain injury after SAH including DCI—a phenomenon referred to as anesthetic conditioning. The aim of the present study was to assess the potential role of inhalational anesthetics against cerebral vasospasm and DCI in patients suffering from an SAH.METHODSAfter IRB approval, data were collected retrospectively for all SAH patients admitted to the authors’ hospital between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2013, who received general anesthesia with either inhalational anesthetics only (sevoflurane or desflurane) or combined inhalational (sevoflurane or desflurane) and intravenous (propofol) anesthetics during aneurysm treatment. The primary outcomes were development of angiographic vasospasm and development of DCI during hospitalization. Univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of these endpoints.RESULTSThe cohort included 157 SAH patients whose mean age was 56 ± 14 (± SD). An inhalational anesthetic–only technique was employed in 119 patients (76%), while a combination of inhalational and intravenous anesthetics was employed in 34 patients (22%). As expected, patients in the inhalational anesthetic–only group were exposed to significantly more inhalational agent than patients in the combination anesthetic group (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified inhalational anesthetic–only technique (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.14–0.89), Hunt and Hess grade (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.03–2.22), and diabetes (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.06–0.55) as significant predictors of angiographic vasospasm. In contradistinction, the inhalational anesthetic–only technique had no significant impact on the incidence of DCI or functional outcome at discharge, though greater exposure to desflurane (as measured by end-tidal concentration) was associated with a lower incidence of DCI.CONCLUSIONSThese data represent the first evidence in humans that inhalational anesthetics may exert a conditioning protective effect against angiographic vasospasm in SAH patients. Future studies will be needed to determine whether optimized inhalational anesthetic paradigms produce definitive protection against angiographic vasospasm; whether they protect against other events leading to secondary brain injury after SAH, including microvascular thrombi, autoregulatory dysfunction, blood-brain barrier breakdown, neuroinflammation, and neuronal cell death; and, if so, whether this protection ultimately improves patient outcome.

Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETSS) is a well-established treatment for patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs). Data on the rates of pituitary dysfunction and recovery in a large cohort of NFPA patients undergoing ETSS and the predictors of endocrine function before and after ETSS are scarce. This study is purposed to analyze the comprehensive changes in hormonal function and identify factors that predict recovery or worsening of hormonal axes following ETSS for NFPA. A retrospective review of 601 consecutive patients who underwent ETSS between 2010 and 2018 at one institution was performed. Recovery or development of new hypopituitarism was analyzed in 209 NFPA patients who underwent ETSS. Patients with preoperative endocrine deficits (59.8%) in one or more pituitary axes had larger tumor volumes (P = 0.001) than those without preoperative deficits. Recovery of preoperative pituitary deficit occurred in all four axes, with overall mean recovery of 29.7%. The cortisol axis showed the highest recovery whereas the thyroid axis showed the lowest, with 1-year cumulative recovery rates of 44.3% and 6.1%, respectively. Postoperative hypopituitarism occurred overall in 17.2%, most frequently in the thyroid axis (24.3%, 27/111) and least frequently in the cortisol axis (9.7%, 16/165). Axis-specific predictors of post-operative recovery and deficiency were identified. Dynamic alterations in pituitary hormones were observed in a proportion of patients following ETSS in NFPA patients. Postoperative endocrine vulnerability, recovery, and factors that predicted recovery or loss of endocrine function depended on the hormonal system, necessitating an axis-specific surveillance strategy postoperatively.

Background Standard treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) involves reduction of intracranial pressure (ICP) to normal range, often via a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS). We describe a case of a middle-aged man who presented with symptoms consistent with IIH. After ICP was normalized with a VPS, the patient had neurologic deterioration into a coma. He completely recovered after a month when his ICP was allowed to increase and remain above the normal range. Case Description A 50-year-old man presented with daily headaches, visual loss (right > left), and increased lumbar opening pressure consistent with IIH. A VPS was inserted using a Strata II valve with a pressure setting of 1.5, lowering ICP into the normal range. The patient initially had a normal postoperative course, but then became comatose and developed imaging signs consistent with intracranial hypotension. A Codman Certas valve was placed at a setting of 7 and a distal slit-cut peritoneal catheter was used (as opposed to standard open output). This custom system drained at pressure >26 mm Hg based on intraoperative manometry. The patient tolerated this well and is currently planned for a gradual reduction in ICP with valve setting adjustments as an outpatient. Conclusions In patients with chronic IIH, reduction to normal ICP may unexpectedly lead to encephalopathic changes. Personalized shunts may facilitate reduction of ICP to still elevated but tolerable levels in these patients.

BackgroundThe transradial approach (TRA) has gained increasing popularity for neuroendovascular procedures. However, the experience with TRA in neuroangiography is still in early stages in most centers, and the safety and feasibility of this approach have not been well established. The purpose of this study is to report the safety and feasibility of TRA for neuroendovascular procedures.MethodsWe reviewed charts from six institutions in the USA to include consecutive patients who underwent diagnostic or interventional neuroendovascular procedures through TRA from July 2018 to July 2019. Collected data included baseline characteristics, procedural variables, complications, and whether there was a crossover to transfemoral access.ResultsA total of 2203 patients were included in the study (age 56.1±15.2, 60.8% women). Of these, 1697 (77%) patients underwent diagnostic procedures and 506 (23%) underwent interventional procedures. Successfully completed procedures included aneurysm coiling (n=97), flow diversion (n=89), stent-assisted coiling (n=57), balloon-assisted coiling (n=19), and stroke thrombectomy (n=76). Crossover to femoral access was required in 114 (5.2%). There were no major complications related to the radial access site. Minor complications related to access site were seen in 14 (0.6%) patients.ConclusionIn this early stage of transforming to the ‘radial-first’ approach for neuroendovascular procedures, TRA was safe with low complication rates for both diagnostic and interventional procedures. A wide range of procedures were completed successfully using TRA.

Purpose: Most World Health Organization (WHO) grade I meningiomas carry a favorable prognosis. Some become clinically aggressive with recurrence, invasion, and resistance to conventional therapies (grade 1.5; recurrent/progressive WHO grade I tumors requiring further treatment within 10 years). We aimed to identify biomarker signatures in grade 1.5 meningiomas where histopathology and genetic evaluation has fallen short. Experimental Design: Mass spectrometry (MS)–based phosphoproteomics and peptide chip array kinomics were used to compare grade I and 1.5 tumors. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) identified alterations in signaling pathways with validation by Western blot analysis. The selected biomarker was evaluated in an independent cohort of 140 samples (79/140 genotyped for meningioma mutations) by tissue microarray and correlated with clinical variables. Results: The MS-based phosphoproteomics revealed differential Ser/Thr phosphorylation in 32 phosphopeptides. The kinomic profiling by peptide chip array identified 10 phosphopeptides, including a 360% increase in phosphorylation of RB1, in the 1.5 group. IPA of the combined datasets and Western blot validation revealed regulation of AKT and cell-cycle checkpoint cascades. RB1 hyperphosphorylation at the S780 site distinguished grade 1.5 meningiomas in an independent cohort of 140 samples and was associated with decreased progression/recurrence-free survival. Mutations in NF2, TRAF7, SMO, KLF4, and AKT1 E17K did not predict RB1 S780 staining or progression in grade 1.5 meningiomas. Conclusions: RB1 S780 staining distinguishes grade 1.5 meningiomas, independent of histology, subtype, WHO grade, or genotype. This promising biomarker for risk stratification of histologically bland WHO grade I meningiomas provides insight into the pathways of oncogenesis driving these outlying clinically aggressive tumors.

IntroductionTransradial access is increasingly used among neurointerventionalists as an alternative to the transfemoral route. Currently available data, building on the interventional cardiology experience, primarily focus on right radial access. However, there are clinical scenarios when left-sided access may be indicated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the technical feasibility of left transradial access to cerebral angiography across three institutions.MethodsA retrospective chart review was performed for patients who underwent cerebral angiography accessed via the left radial artery at three institutions between January 2018 and July 2019. The outcome variables studied were successful catheterization, vascular complications, and fluoroscopic time.ResultsNineteen patients underwent a total of 25 cerebral angiograms via left transradial access for cerebral aneurysms (n=15), basilar occlusion (n=1), carotid stenosis (n=1), arteriovenous malformation (n=1), and cervical neurofibroma (n=1). There were 12 diagnostic angiograms and 13 interventional angiograms. The left transradial approach was chosen due to left vertebrobasilar pathology (n=22), right subclavian stenosis (n=2), and previous right arm amputation (n=1). There was one instance of radial artery spasm, which resolved after catheter removal, and one conversion to transfemoral access in an interventional case due to lack of distal catheter support. There were no procedural complications.ConclusionsLeft transradial access in diagnostic and interventional cerebral angiography is a technically feasible, safe, and an effective alternative when indicated, and may be preferable for situations in which pathology locations or anatomic limitations preclude right-sided radial access.

The central nervous system (CNS) antigen presenting cell (APC) which primes anti-tumor CD8+ T cell responses remains undefined. Elsewhere, the conventional dendritic cell 1 (cDC1) performs this role. However, steady-state brain cDC1 are rare; cDC localize to choroid plexus and dura. Using preclinical glioblastoma models and cDC1-deficient mice, we explored the role of cDC1 in CNS anti-tumor immunity. We determined that cDC1 mediate checkpoint blockade-induced survival benefit and prime neoantigen-specific CD8+ T cells against brain tumors. We observed that cDC, including cDC1, isolated from the tumor, the dura, and the CNS-draining cervical lymph nodes harbored a traceable fluorescent tumor-antigen. In patient samples, we observed several APC subsets (including the CD141+ cDC1-equivalent) infiltrating glioblastomas, meningiomas, and dura. In these same subsets, we identified a tumor-specific fluorescent metabolite of 5- aminolevulinic acid, which labels tumor cells during fluorescence-guided glioblastoma resection. Together, these data elucidate the specialized behavior of cDC1 and suggest cDC1 play a significant role in CNS anti-tumor immunity.One Sentence SummaryCNS cDC1 engage in previously undefined behavior to establish immune responses against brain tumors.

Recent investigation of the meninges, specifically the dura layer, has highlighted its importance in CNS immune surveillance beyond a purely structural role. However, most of our understanding of the meninges stems from the use of pre-clinical models rather than human samples. In this study, we use single cell RNA-sequencing to perform the first characterization of both non-tumor-associated human dura and meningioma samples. First, we reveal a complex immune microenvironment in human dura that is transcriptionally distinct from that of meningioma. In addition, through T cell receptor sequencing, we show significant TCR overlap between matched dura and meningioma samples. We also identify a functionally heterogeneous population of non-immune cell types and report copy-number variant heterogeneity within our meningioma samples. Our comprehensive investigation of both the immune and non-immune cell landscapes of human dura and meningioma at a single cell resolution provide new insight into previously uncharacterized roles of human dura.

Introduction/Purpose Flow diversion of aneurysms located in the M1 segment and middle cerebral artery bifurcation with Pipeline embolization device is sometimes performed, but further study is needed to support its regular use in aneurysm treatment. Here, we report measures of safety and efficacy for Pipeline embolization in the proximal middle cerebral artery in a multi-center cohort. Materials and Methods Clinical and angiographic data of eligible patients undergoing Pipeline embolization of aneurysms located in the M1 segment and middle cerebral artery bifurcation were retrospectively obtained from participating centers and assessed for key clinical, angiographic, and cross-sectional imaging outcomes. Additional details were extracted for patients with complications. Results In our multi-center cohort, complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 71% (17/24) of treated aneurysms. There were no deaths or disabling strokes, but non-disabling ischemic strokes occurred in 8% (2/24) of patients. For aneurysms in the M1 segment, complete aneurysm occlusion was observed in 75% (12/16) of aneurysms, aneurysm volume reduction was observed in 100% (16/16) of aneurysms, and non-disabling ischemic strokes occurred in 13% (2/16) of patients. An illustrative example of an M1 aneurysm treated with PED is provided in figure 1. For aneurysms at the middle cerebral artery bifurcation, complete aneurysm occlusion was observed in 63% (5/8) of aneurysms, aneurysm volume reduction occurred in 88% (7/8) of aneurysms, and ischemic or hemorrhagic complications occurred in 0% (0/8) of patients. 19% (3/16) of patients that remained asymptomatic in the follow-up period and underwent cross-sectional imaging had clinically silent basal ganglia infarcts identified. Conclusion Pipeline embolization of cerebral aneurysms in the M1 segment and middle cerebral artery bifurcation demonstrated a 71% rate of complete aneurysm occlusion. There were no deaths or disabling strokes, but there was an 8% rate of non-disabling ischemic strokes. Further work is necessary to describe the long-term effects of silent basal ganglia infarcts caused by PED. Disclosures D. Lauzier: None. B. Root: None. Y. Kayan: 2; C; Microvention, Penumbra, Medtronic. J. Delgado Almandoz: 2; C; Medtronic, Microvention. J. Osbun: 2; C; Medtronic, Microvention. A. Chatterjee: None. K. Whaley: None. M. Tipps: None. C. Moran: 2; C; Medtronic, Cerenovus. A. Kansagra: 2; C; Penumbra, Microvention, iSchemaView.

Introduction Limited data is available about the outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in stroke patients presenting with a large core infarct. We aim to investigate the safety and efficacy of MT in patients with large vessel occlusion and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) of 2-5. Methods Data from Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm Registry (STAR), which combined the prospectively maintained databases of 28 thrombectomy-capable stroke centers in the US, Europe, and Asia, was interrogated. We identified thrombectomy patients presenting with an occlusion in the Internal carotid artery (ICA) or M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Multivariable regression analysis was performed to assess factors associated with favorable 90-day outcome (modified Rankin scale 0-3), including interaction terms between ASPECTS 2-5 and receiving MT in the extended window (≥ 6 hours from symptom-onset). Results Among MT patients who presented with ICA or M1 occlusion, 2132 had ASPECTS≥6 and 213 patients had ASPECTS 2-5. Patients in the low ASPECTS group were younger (70 vs. 72 years old, P=0.003) and more likely to present with an ICA occlusion (47.9% vs. 28.8%, P Conclusion More than one in three patients presenting with ASPECTS (2-5) may achieve favorable 90-day functional outcome following MT. Favorable outcome was 4 times higher in low ASPECTS patients who had successful recanalization. The effect of low ASPECTS on 90-day outcome did not differ in patients presenting in the early versus extended MT window. Disclosures E. Almallouhi: None. S. Al Kasab: None. Z. Hubbard: None. G. Porto: None. A. Alawieh: None. R. Chalhoub: None. E. Bass: None. P. Jabbour: None. R. Starke: None. S. Wolfe: None. A. Arthur: None. I. Maier: None. J. Grossberg: None. A. Rai: None. M. Park: None. J. Mascitelli: None. M. Psychogios: None. R. De Leacy: None. D. Raper: None. T. Dumont: None. M. Levitt: None. A. Polifka: None. J. Osbun: None. R. Crosa: None. J. Kim: None. W. Casagrande: None. M. Mokin: None. C. Matouk: None. A. Shaban: None. I. Fragata: None. A. Yoo: None. A. Spiotta: 1; C; Stryker, Penumbra, and Medtronic. 2; C; Penumbra, Stryker, Cerenovus, Terumo.

OBJECTIVE Brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) carry a risk of rupture and subsequent morbidity or mortality unless fully treated. AVMs in pediatric patients are known to occasionally recur after obliteration. The objective of this study was to characterize the risk of AVM recurrence following angiographically confirmed obliteration in children. METHODS Consecutive pediatric AVMs treated at a single center were identified from a prospective database. Patients with angiographically confirmed AVM obliteration following treatment were included in this study. Associations between AVM recurrence and patient or procedural factors were characterized using the two-tailed Fisher exact test or Mann-Whitney U-test. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and the Clarivate Web of Science with defined search criteria, and eligible studies were included alongside this study cohort in a meta-analysis. Rates of AVM recurrence following obliteration were pooled across studies with a random-effects model and reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS Recurrence after angiographic confirmation of AVM obliteration was observed in 10.4% (7/67) of pediatric AVMs treated at the authors’ center. Patients with recurrent AVMs were significantly younger than those without recurrence (p = 0.002). In the meta-analysis, which included 1134 patients across 24 studies, the rate of recurrence was 4.8% (95% CI 3.0%–6.7%). The rate of AVM recurrence following radiosurgery was 0.7% (95% CI 0%–1.6%), which was significantly lower than the 8.5% rate (95% CI 5.0%–12.0%) following microsurgery. CONCLUSIONS Recurrence of obliterated brain AVMs is common in children. Recurrence is more common in young children and following microsurgery.

BackgroundUse of the radial artery as an access site for neurointerventional procedures is gaining popularity after several studies in interventional cardiology have demonstrated superior patient safety, decreased length of stay, and patient preference compared with femoral artery access. The transradial approach has yet to be characterized for intraoperative cerebral angiography.ObjectiveTo report a multicenter experience on the use of radial artery access in intraoperative cerebral angiography, including case series and discussion of technical nuances.Methods27 patients underwent attempted transradial cerebral angiography betweenMay 2017 and May 2019. Data were collected regarding technique, patient positioning, vessels selected, technical success rate, and access site complications.Results24 of the 27 patients (88.8%) underwent successful transradial intraoperative cerebral angiography. 18 patients (66.7%) were positioned supine, 6 patients (22.2%) were positioned prone, 1 patient (3.7%) was positioned lateral, and 2 patients (7.4%) were positioned three-quarters prone. A total of 31 vessels were selected including 13 right carotid arteries (8 common, 1 external, 4 internal), 11 left carotid arteries (9 common and 2 internal), and 6 vertebral arteries (5 right and 1 left). Two patients (7.4%) required conversion to femoral access in order to complete the intraoperative angiogram (1 due to arterial vasospasm and 1 due to inadvertent venous catheterization). One procedure (3.7%) was aborted because of inability to obtain the appropriate fluoroscopic views due to patient positioning. No patient experienced stroke, arterial dissection, or access site complication.ConclusionsTransradial intraoperative cerebral angiography is safe and feasible with potential for improved operating room workflow ergonomics, faster patient mobility in the postoperative period, and reduced costs.

Background The Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) has been increasingly used for the treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms. The purpose of the present study was to examine the clinical and angiographic outcomes of patients with vertebrobasilar aneurysms treated with the PED. Methods We performed a retrospective review of vertebrobasilar aneurysms treated with the PED at 4 high-volume neurovascular centers. Patient, aneurysm, and procedural data were collected, including perioperative and delayed complications. Aneurysm occlusion on follow-up imaging studies was defined as complete (100%), near-complete (>90%), or incomplete ( Results The cohort included 35 patients with 37 vertebrobasilar aneurysms who underwent 36 treatment sessions. Of the 35 patients, 10 were men (29%), and the mean patient age was 54.1 years (range, 32–75). Eight patients (23%) underwent urgent treatment because of a ruptured aneurysm (n = 6), brainstem perforator stroke (n = 1), or post-traumatic pseudoaneurysm (n = 1). Of the 37 aneurysms, 22 arose from the vertebral artery (59%) and 15 from the basilar artery (41%). Also, 19 were saccular aneurysms (51%), with a mean size of 7.7 mm (range, 1.7–38.0); 17 were fusiform aneurysms (46%), with a mean size of 11.0 mm (range, 4.3–34); and 1 was a 2.9-mm blister aneurysm. The overall procedural complication rate was 14% (5 of 36), including 3 neurologically symptomatic complications. At a mean follow-up period of 14 months (range, 3–59), 24 of 34 aneurysms (71%) were completely occluded and 29 of 34 (85%) were completely or near-completely occluded. Conclusion Our results show that Pipeline embolization of vertebrobasilar aneurysms is associated with acceptable occlusion and complication rates.

BackgroundThe transradial approach (TRA) to endovascular procedures decreases access site morbidity and mortality in comparison with the traditional transfemoral technique (TFA). Despite its improved safety profile, there is a concern that TRA is less favorable for neurointerventional procedures that require large coaxial systems to manage the small tortuous cerebral vessels.ObjectiveTo report our experience with TRA for flow diverter placement for treatment of unruptured cerebral aneurysms.MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of prospective institutional databases at two high-volume centers to identify 49 patients who underwent flow diversion for aneurysm treatment via primary TRA between November 2016 and November 2018. Patient demographics, procedural techniques, and clinical data were recorded.ResultsOf the 49 patients, 39 underwent successful flow diversion placement by TRA. Ten patients were converted to TFA after attempted TRA. There were no procedural complications. Reasons for failure included tortuosity in eight patients and severe radial artery spasm in two.ConclusionsIn the largest reported series to date of flow diverter deployment via TRA for aneurysm treatment, we demonstrate the technical feasibility and safety of the method. The most common reason for failure of TRA was an acute angle of left common carotid artery origin or left internal carotid artery tortuosity. Overall, our data suggest that increasing adoption of TRA is merited given its apparent equivalence to the current TFA technique and its documented reduction in access site complications.

Introduction: Successful first pass (SFP) has been identified as a key benchmark of the success of mechanical thrombectomy (MT). However, studies that evaluate the predictors and outcomes of SFP using ADAPT (A Direct Aspiration first Pass Technique) are limied by the small number of patients or single center design. Methods: We used data from the prospectively collected data from 28 stroke centers that are included in the Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm Registry (STAR). Patients with middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions at the level of M1 or M2 segments were included. SFP was defined by achieving modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) score≥2b with a single aspiration attempt. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the predictors of SFP and evaluate the relationship between SFP and favorable 90-day outcome (90-day modified Rankin scale ≤2). Results: Out of 6123 patients included in STAR, 1002 (16.4%) underwent MT of M1 or M2 occlusion using ADAPT technique. SFP was achieved in 390 (38.9%) patients. SFP patients were older (72 vs. 69, P=0.007), had higher Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) on presentation (9 vs. 8, P=0.018) (Table 1). On multivariable analysis, neither age (aOR 1.006, 95% CI 0.996-1.016, P=0.252) nor ASPECTS (aOR 1.055, 95% CI 0.976-1.141, P=0.179) were independent predictor of SFP. Importantly, SFP was independently associated with favorable 90-day outcome (aOR 2.769, 95% CI 1.988-3.858, P Conclusion: In this cohort of patients with M1 or M2 occlsuion undergoing MT using ADAPT technique, patients who had SFP were older and had better ASPECTS. However, both age and ASPECTS were not independently associated with SFP. Also, patients who had SFP were almost 3 times more likely to achieve favorable 90-day outcome.

Introduction: Patients with poor baseline images were excluded from most clinical trials so the data about whether these patients could benefit from MT remains unknown. In this study, we aim to investigate the safety and efficacy of MT in patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) and large core infarct (LCI). Methods: The Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm Registry (STAR) was interrogated. We included thrombectomy patients presenting with LVO within 24 hours and with a LCI as defined by Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) < 6. Patients presenting within 6 hours of last known normal (LKN) were considered in the early window and patients presenting after 6 hours were considered in the late window. 90-day outcomes were assessed. We used a logistic regression model to assess the factors associated with good 90-day outcome in patients in the early and late windows. Results: 144 patients were included in this study (table). Median age was 69 and 92 (64%) patients were treated in the early MT window. ICA was the most common site of occlusion (48.6%) and ADAPT was used in 34.7%. Admission NIHSS was 17.5. Successful recanalization (TICI>2b) was achieved in 84.7% and median procedure time was 54 minutes. sICH hemorrhage was observed in 22 (15.3%). Median mRS was 4 at 90 days. Favorable outcome was observed in 41 patients (28.5%) and mortality occurred in in 59 (41%). There was no difference in 90-day functional outcome between patients in early and late windows. In patients presenting in the early window, age (aOR=0.905, p=0.0002) and baseline NIHSS (aOR=0.909, p=0.0423) were independently associated with 90-day outcome. In patients presenting in the late window, only age (aOR=0.934, p=0.0069) was independently associated with good outcome. Conclusion: More than one in four patients presenting with ASPECTS

Introduction: Previous studies have reported that Hispanic stroke patients have limited access to mechanical thrombectomy (MT) compared to other ethnic groups. This has resulted in worse stroke outcomes in this group. However, limited data is available about the outcomes of MT in Hispanic patients. Methods: We used data from the Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm Registry (STAR) that combined the prospectively maintained databases of 28 thrombectomy-capable stroke centers in the US, Europe, and Asia. Consecutive patients who underwent MT were included in these analyses and patients were divided into 2 groups (Hispanics vs. non-Hispanics). Baseline features, time from symptom onset, thrombolysis receipt, final thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) score, symptomatic hemorrhage, and 90-day functional outcomes (measured by modified Rankin scale-mRS) were compared between Hispanic and non-Hispanics patients. A generalized linear model with logit link was used to assess the relationship between ethnicity and favorable outcomes at 90-day (mRS 0-2) controlling for confounders. Results: We included 2015 patients in these analyses. Of those, 285 (14.1%) were Hispanic. As shown in table 1, Hispanic patients were older (72 vs. 70, p=0.007), more likely to have diabetes (41.1% vs. 26.5%, p Conclusion: Hispanic patients receiving MT have higher rate of stroke risk factors including diabetes and hypertension. Moreover, Hispanic ethnicity was independently associated with lower probability of favorable 90-day outcome.

Introduction: Recent trials have proven safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy for patients presenting with emergent large vessel occlusion beyond 6 hours of symptom onset. While evidence supports using baseline CT scan to evaluate the candidacy for mechanical thrombectomy for patients presenting in the early window, late window trials have used advanced imaging such as CT and MR perfusion. We aim to assess outcomes of MT stratified by admission Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS). Methods: We used data from the prospectively maintained registries of 28 stroke centers in the Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm (STAR) collaboration. Demographics, comorbidities, LVO site, ASPECTS, MT technique, radiographic and clinical outcome data were collected. Patients with M1 or ICA occlusion were included in these analyses. Multivariable analysis was performed using a generalized linear model with logit link to assess for variables associated with favorable outcomes. Results: 3356 patients in the STAR database were reviewed and 347 (10.3%) of those underwent MT in the late window (table). Median age was 69, 189 (54.5%) were female, and 181 (52.2%) were white. 295 patients ASPECTS ≥6. In this group, 200 (68.8%) had M1 occlusion, and the remaining had ICA occlusion. Aspiration thrombectomy was used in 139 (47.1%) of patients. Successful reperfusion was achieved (mTICI≥2b) in 264 (76.1%). sICH was observed in 15 (5.1%). Excellent functional outcome (mRS 0-2) was observed in 124 (42%) patients. ASPECTS score was independently associated with favorable outcomes (aOR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.4, P=0.006). Conclusion: Excellent outcomes are observed in patients with good ASPECT score presenting in the late window irrespective of perfusion criteria. Admission CT scan could be used to triage patients presenting with emergent large vessel occlusion beyond 6 hours of symptom onset.

Background The demand of thrombectomy treatment for acute ischemic stroke increased dramatically in the United States after the publication of 5 pivotal trials in 2015. The impact of call burden on career satisfaction and burnout in neurointerventionalists has not been explored. Methods A qualitative approach was chosen to obtain rich, detailed accounts of physician experiences. From July 2018 to July 2019, we conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews (mean duration, 43 minutes) with 16 academic neurointerventionalists from various institutions in the United States. Participants were chosen from the Society of Neurointerventional Surgery to include multiple specialties, career stages, and geographic locations. Key themes/subthemes were organized into a conceptual model and shown by exemplary quotes. Results Participants report a diverse range of previously uncharacterized ways in which stroke call responsibilities affect their lives. Unrealistic performance expectations, discipline-based inequalities, poor organizational workflow, limited opportunities for growth and advancement, and lack of control over call conditions are some of the key themes identified. Participants describe a need for interventions that address both the issues of workload stress (i.e., resources for stroke call and administrative work) and their ability to accomplish professional goals (i.e., flexible work arrangements, leadership autonomy support, and organizational value congruence). Conclusions The burden of stroke call has strong implications for career satisfaction and burnout in neurointerventionalists. This model can be used by hospitals, departments, and physician groups to better conceptualize conditions that facilitate burnout and attrition. Changes to hospital management practices and culture may be the most productive focal areas for intervention.

BACKGROUND Although endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETSS) is an established treatment for patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs), data are limited regarding the rates and predictors of pituitary dysfunction and recovery in a large cohort of NFPA patients undergoing ETSS. OBJECTIVE To analyze the comprehensive changes in hormonal function and identify factors that predict recovery or worsening of hormonal axes following ETSS for NFPA. METHODS Among a cohort of 601 consecutive patients who underwent ETSS for NFPA between 2010 and 2018 at Washington University in Saint Louis, recovery or development of new hypopituitarism was retrospectively analyzed in 209 patients. RESULTS Preoperative endocrine deficits were observed in 59.8% of patients (125/209), and the deficit rates were 76.8% for male gonadal axis (86/112), 42.5% for thyroid axis, 25.8% for growth hormone axis, and 15.8% for cortisol axis. Recovery of preoperative pituitary deficit was noted in all four axes, with highest recovery in the cortisol axis with a 1-year cumulative recovery rate of 44.3%. New-onset postoperative hypopituitarism occurred most frequently in the thyroid axis (24.3%, 27/111) and least frequently in the cortisol axis (9.7%, 16/165). Multivariate analyses revealed axis-specific predictors of postoperative recovery and de novo deficiency. Older age was a negative predictor for recovery of both male hypogonadism (P= 0.04) and adrenal insufficiency (P=0.046), and a larger tumor volume was a negative predictor for recovery of hypothyroidism (P=0.043). Although higher body mass index was generally associated with any new postoperative pituitary deficit (P=0.03), most predictors of new onset deficits also differed by hormone axis. CONCLUSIONS Dynamic changes in pituitary hormonal levels were observed in a significant fraction of patients following ETSS in NFPA patients. The specific hormonal axis dictated postoperative endocrine vulnerability, recovery, and predictors of recovery or loss of endocrine function.

BackgroundCurrently, there are no large-scale studies in the neurointerventional literature comparing safety between transradial (TRA) and transfemoral (TFA) approaches for flow diversion procedures. This study aims to assess complication rates in a large multicenter registry for TRA versus TFA flow diversion.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed flow diversion cases for cerebral aneurysms from 14 institutions from 2010 to 2019. Pooled analysis of proportions was calculated using weighted analysis with 95% CI to account for results from multiple centers. Access site complication rate and overall complication rate were compared between the two approaches.ResultsA total of 2,285 patients who underwent flow diversion were analyzed, with 134 (5.86%) treated with TRA and 2151 (94.14%) via TFA. The two groups shared similar patient and aneurysm characteristics. Crossover from TRA to TFA was documented in 12 (8.63%) patients. There were no access site complications in the TRA group. There was a significantly higher access site complication rate in the TFA cohort as compared with TRA (2.48%, 95% CI 2.40% to 2.57%, vs 0%; p=0.039). One death resulted from a femoral access site complication. The overall complications rate was also higher in the TFA group (9.02%, 95% CI 8.15% to 9.89%) compared with the TRA group (3.73%, 95% CI 3.13% to 4.28%; p=0.035).ConclusionTRA may be a safer approach for flow diversion to treat cerebral aneurysms at a wide range of locations. Both access site complication rate and overall complication rate were lower for TRA flow diversion compared with TFA in this large series.

BackgroundDiagnostic cerebral angiograms are increasingly being performed by transradial access (TRA) in adults, following data from the coronary literature supporting fewer access-site complications. Despite this ongoing trend in neuroangiography, there has been no discussion of its use in the pediatric population. Pediatric TRA has scarcely been described even for coronary or other applications. This is the first dedicated large study of transradial access for neuroangiography in pediatric patients.MethodsA multi-institutional series of consecutively performed pediatric transradial angiograms and interventions was collected. This included demographic, procedural, outcomes, and safety data. Data was prospectively recorded and retrospectively analyzed.ResultsThirty-seven diagnostic angiograms and 24 interventions were performed in 47 pediatric patients. Mean age, height, and weight was 14.1 years, 158.6 cm, and 57.1 kg, respectively. The radial artery measured 2.09+/-0.54 mm distally, and 2.09+/-0.44 mm proximally. Proximal and distal angiography were performed for both diagnostic and interventional application (17 distal angiograms, two distal interventions). Clinically significant vasospasm occurred in eight patients (13.1%). Re-access was successfully performed 11 times in seven patients. Conversion to femoral access occurred in five cases (8.2%). The only access-related complication was a small asymptomatic wrist hematoma after TR band removal.ConclusionsTransradial access in pediatric patients is safe and feasible. It can be performed successfully in many cases but carries some unique challenges compared with the adult population. Despite the challenge of higher rates of vasospasm and conversion to femoral access, it is worth exploring further, given the potential benefits.

BackgroundThere are limited outcome data to guide the choice of treatment in pediatric patients with cerebral aneurysms.ObjectiveTo describe our institutional experience treating pediatric patients with cerebral aneurysms and to conduct a meta-analysis of available studies to provide the best current evidence on treatment related outcomes.MethodsWe identified pediatric patients with cerebral aneurysms evaluated or treated at our institution using a comprehensive case log. We also identified studies to include in a meta-analysis through a systematic search of Pubmed, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. As part of both the local analysis and meta-analysis, we recorded patient characteristics, aneurysm characteristics, management, and outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher’s exact test and the two tailed Student’s t test, as appropriate.Results42 pediatric patients with 57 aneurysms were evaluated at our institution, and treatment specific outcome data were available in 560 patients as part of our meta-analysis. Endovascular and surgical treatments yielded comparable rates of favorable outcome in all children (88.3% vs 82.7%, respectively, P=0.097), in children with ruptured aneurysms (75% vs 83%, respectively, P=0.357), and in children with unruptured aneurysms (96% vs 97%, respectively, P=1.000).ConclusionEndovascular and surgical treatment yield comparable long term clinical outcomes in pediatric patients with cerebral aneurysms.

Flow diversion is a viable alternative for treatment of wide-neck and fusiform aneurysms originating from the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA), but coverage of the PICA and vertebral perforating arteries may be a concern. The aim of this study was to examine procedural, clinical, and angiographic outcomes of patients with PICA aneurysms treated with the Pipeline Embolization Device.Retrospective review was performed of PICA aneurysms treated with the Pipeline device at 3 neurovascular centers, including periprocedural complications and clinical and angiographic outcomes.In 16 procedures, 14 PICA aneurysms were treated with the Pipeline device. These included 11 saccular aneurysms with a mean size of 7.4 mm (range, 2.0-11.1 mm) and 3 fusiform aneurysms with a mean diameter of 6.1 mm (range, 5.0-8.0 mm) and mean length of 10.3 mm (range, 6.0-15.0 mm). One patient developed a PICA territory infarct with mild leg weakness that resolved in7 days. Overall complication rate was 7% (1/14) per patient and 6% (1/16) per procedure. Mean duration of clinical follow-up was 13.5 months (range, 3 weeks to 61.7 months), with all patients returning to baseline functional status. Complete or near-complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 58% (7/12) of cases with angiographic follow-up (mean, 15 months; range, 4-61 months). All covered PICAs remained patent.Flow diversion of PICA aneurysms is a safe and viable treatment option when traditional endovascular options are unlikely to preserve parent vessel patency.

Background Flow diversion of posterior cerebral artery (PCA) aneurysms has not been widely reported, possibly owing to concerns regarding parent vessel size and branch vessel coverage. Objective To examine the safety and effectiveness of PCA aneurysm flow diverter treatment. Methods Retrospective review of PCA aneurysms treated with the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED; Medtronic Inc, Dublin, Ireland) at 3 neurovascular centers, including periprocedural complications and clinical and angiographic outcomes. Systematic review of the literature identified published reports of PCA aneurysms treated with flow diversion. Rates of aneurysm occlusion and complications were calculated, and outcomes of saccular and fusiform aneurysm treatments were compared. Results Ten PCA aneurysms in 9 patients were treated with the PED. There were 2 intraprocedural thromboembolic events (20%), including 1 symptomatic infarction and 1 delayed PED thrombosis. Eight of 10 patients returned to or improved from their baseline functional status. Complete aneurysm occlusion with parent vessel preservation was achieved in 75% (6/8) of cases at mean follow-up of 16.7 mo. Eleven of 12 (92%) major branch vessels covered by a PED remained patent. Including the present study, systematic review of 15 studies found a complete aneurysm occlusion rate of 88% (30/34) and complication rate of 26% (10/38), including 5 symptomatic ischemic strokes (13%; 5/38). Fusiform aneurysms more frequently completely occluded compared with saccular aneurysms (100% vs 70%; P = .03) but were associated with a higher complication rate (43% vs 9%; P = .06). Conclusion The safety and effectiveness profile of flow diverter treatment of PCA aneurysms may be acceptable in select cases.

BackgroundFlow diversion of intracranial aneurysms with the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) is commonly performed, but the value of long-term angiographic follow-up has not been rigorously evaluated. Here we examine the prevalence of actionable findings of aneurysm recurrence and development of in-stent stenosis in a cohort of patients that underwent long-term angiographic follow-up at multiple time points.MethodsAngiographic data from eligible patients were retrospectively assessed for aneurysm occlusion, in-stent stenosis, and aneurysm regrowth or recurrence. Patients were included in this study if they underwent angiographic imaging at 6 months post-treatment and at least one later time point.Results100% (132/132) of aneurysms occluded at 6 months remained occluded at final follow-up. 85.7% (6/7), 56.3% (27/48), and 25% (6/24) of aneurysms with entry remnant, subtotal filling, and total filling, respectively, at 6 months were completely occluded at final follow-up. 98.7% (147/149) of PED constructs that demonstrated no stenosis at 6 months demonstrated no stenosis at final angiography, while 44.4% (8/18) of PED constructs demonstrating in-stent stenosis at 6 months had resolution of stenosis on final angiography.ConclusionsAmong patients who undergo treatment of intracranial aneurysms with PED, the value of long-term angiography in patients demonstrating complete aneurysm occlusion and no in-stent stenosis on 6 month post-treatment angiography is low.

Background and purpose Flow diversion may have advantages in the treatment of posterior communicating artery (PComA) aneurysms associated with a fetal origin posterior cerebral artery (PCA), which can be challenging to treat with conventional techniques. However, a PComA incorporated into the aneurysm may prevent or delay aneurysm occlusion. Also, coverage of a fetal origin PCA risks infarction of a large vascular territory. The purpose of this study was to examine the safety and effectiveness of using the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) to treat PComA aneurysms associated with a fetal origin PCA. Patients and methods Retrospective review of PComA aneurysms associated with a fetal origin PCA treated with the PED at two neurovascular centers was performed. Periprocedural complications and clinical and angiographic outcomes were reviewed. Results Seven female patients underwent a total of seven PED procedures to treat seven PcomA aneurysms associated with a fetal origin PCA. The symptomatic complication rate was 14% (1/7) per patient and 13% (1/8) per procedure. Angiographic follow up was obtained for 6 of 7 aneurysms. Follow-up DSA at 5–7 months after treatment demonstrated complete occlusion of 17% (1/6) of aneurysms. One aneurysm was retreated with a second PED and occlusion was demonstrated 36 months after the second treatment, yielding an overall complete occlusion rate of 33% (2/6). Conclusions PED treatment was largely ineffective at treating PComA aneurysms associated with a fetal origin PCA, and should only be considered when conventional treatment options, including microsurgical clipping, are not feasible.

Background Aneurysms at the origin of the posterior communicating artery (PcommA) have been demonstrated to be effectively treated with the pipeline embolization device (PED). Much less is known about the efficacy of the PED for aneurysms associated with a fetal posterior cerebral artery (fPCA) variant. Objective To study PED treatment efficacy of PcommA aneurysms, including fPCA aneurysms. Methods A prospectively maintained university database of aneurysm patients treated with the PED was retrospectively reviewed. Demographics, treatment details, and imaging were reviewed for all PcommA and fPCA aneurysms. Results Out of a total of 285 patients treated with PED, 50 patients (mean age 57.5 ± 12.2 yr, 42 females) with unruptured PcommA (9 fPCA) aneurysms were identified. Mean follow-up duration was 14.0 ± 11.6 mo (48 patients). Roy-Raymond class I occlusion on follow-up magnetic resonance or catheter angiography (mean time 11.7 ± 6.8 mo) was achieved in 30 patients (62.5%), class II occlusion in 11 patients (22.9%) and class III occlusion in 7 patients (14.5%). The PcommA was occluded in 56% of patients without any clinical symptoms. No deaths or permanent neurological complications occurred. In fPCA aneurysms, class I occlusion was seen in 1 patient, class 2 occlusion in 2 patients, and class III occlusion in 6 patients. Multivariate analysis revealed an independent association between incomplete occlusion and fPCA configuration (OR 73.65; 95% CI: 5.84-929.13; P = .001). Conclusion The PED is a safe and effective treatment for PcommA aneurysms, although fetal anatomy should increase consideration of traditional endovascular techniques or surgical clipping.