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Introduction: Body lateropulsion (BL) is an active lateral tilt of the body during standing or walking that is thought to be affected by a lesion of the vestibulospinal tract (VST) and the subjective visual vertical (SVV) tilt. Interventions for BL have not been established. Objective: We examined the effects of postural-control training with different sensory reweighting on standing postural control in a patient with BL. Methods: The patient had BL to the left when standing or walking due to a left-side medullary and cerebellar infarct. This study was a single-subject A-B design with follow-up: Phase A was postural-control training with visual feedback; phase B provided reweighting plantar somatosensory information. Postural control, VST excitability, and SVV were measured. Results: At baseline and phase A, the patient could not stand with eyes-closed on a rubber mat, but became able to stand in phase B. The mediolateral center of pressure (COP) position did not change significantly, but the COP velocity decreased significantly during phase B and the follow-up on the firm surface. VST excitability was lower on the BL versus the non-BL side, and the SVV deviated to the right throughout the study. Conclusion: Postural-control training with reweighting somatosensory information might improve postural control in a patient with BL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the use of hybrid treatments for cerebrovascular diseases, which combine microsurgical operations, endovascular procedures, and radiation therapy. It discusses the construction of hybrid operation rooms as a technical advancement that allows for these combined treatments. The article provides examples of successful cases where a multimodality approach utilizing both endovascular and microsurgical techniques has been effective. It also mentions potential benefits of hybrid cerebrovascular surgery, such as treating steno-occlusive disease and vascular malformations. The authors emphasize the need for specialized infrastructure and expertise in complex cases. The opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of their affiliated organizations or the publisher. [Extracted from the article]

The heterogeneous model developed by Berod et al [Int J Numer Method Biomed Eng 38, 2021] for representing the hemodynamic effects of endovascular prostheses is applied to a series of 10 patient specific cerebral aneurysms, 6 being treated by flow diverters, 4 being equipped with WEBs. Two markers correlated with the medical outcome of the treatment are used to assess the potential of the model, namely the saccular mean velocity and the inflow rate at the neck of the aneurysm. The comparison with the corresponding wire‐resolved simulations is very favorable in both cases, and the model‐based simulations also retrieve the jetting‐type flows generated downstream of the struts. Noteworthy, the very same model was used for representing the flow diverters and the WEBs, showing the versatility and robustness of the heterogeneous modeling of the devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recurrence of intracranial aneurysms (IA) after surgical treatment (aneurysm clipping) is relatively rare in clinical practice. The treatment of such an aneurysm requires an individualized approach based on precise medical imaging and experience of the team. Surgical treatment of recurrent aneurysms is technically more demanding compared to primary surgery especially due to postoperative changes. The goal of this study is to review current knowledge and management of recurrent IA after clipping and present our experience with such cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the safety and outcomes of endovascular embolization and craniotomy clipping in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms. Methods: We collected the clinical data of 106 patients with cerebral aneurysm who underwent surgical treatment (endovascular embolization, Group-A, n=55; craniotomy clipping, Group-B, n=51) in the First People’s Hospital of Yichang from January 2020 to May 2021. We compared surgical treatment indexes, treatment costs, neurological function before and after the treatment, incidence of postoperative complications and the prognosis after one-year follow-up between the two groups. Results: Endovascular embolization (Group-A) was associated with a shorter mean operation time and hospital stay, a lower mean intraoperative bleeding amount, and a higher mean treatment cost than craniotomy clipping (Group-B) (P<0.05). Compared with the pre-operative neurological function scores, the scores of both groups decreased after the surgery, and the mean post-operative score of Group-A was significantly lower than that of Group-B (P<0.05). Compared with Group-B, patients in Group-A had a lower overall complication rate (P < 0.05. Higher proportion of patients in Group-A had a good prognosis (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Endovascular embolization for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms is safe as it can shorten the operation time and hospital stay, reduce the incidence of neurological injury and complications, and have a favorable prognosis. However, the treatment is more expensive. Endovascular embolization can be selected for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms when economic conditions allow it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this review article, we aim to provide a summary of the discoveries and developments that were instrumental in the evolution of the Neurointerventional field. We begin with developments in the advent of Diagnostic Cerebral Angiography and progress to cerebral aneurysm treatment, embolization in AVMs and ischemic stroke treatment. In the process we discuss many persons who were key in the development and maturation of the field. A pivotal aspect to rapid growth in the field has been the multidisciplinary involvement of the different neuroscience specialties and therefore we close out our discussion with excitement about ongoing and future developments in the field with a focus on treatments in the non-cerebrovascular disease realm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tools and techniques utilized in endovascular brain aneurysm treatment have undergone rapid evolution in recent decades. These technique and device-level innovations have allowed for treatment of highly complex intracranial aneurysms and improved patient outcomes. We review the major innovations within neurointervention that have led to the current state of brain aneurysm treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Although endovascular treatment is a promising approach, blood blister-like aneurysms (BBAs) still present treatment challenges. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of flow diverter device-assisted coiling (FDDAC) for the treatment of BBAs, which are broad based and friable with a high rebleeding risk. Eight patients (five females and three males) who presented with subarachnoid hemorrhages (SAH) due to BBA ruptures between May 2020 and May 2022 were retrospectively enrolled. All patients were treated by flow diverter device (Tubridge) adjunctive coil embolization using a semi-deploying technique. The demographic information, angiographic data, interval between admission and treatment, materials, therapy, clinical outcomes (including periprocedural and intraprocedural mortality and morbidity), and follow-up results of all patients were reviewed. The mean age of the patients with BBAs was 48.5 years (range 31–62 years); aneurysm sizes ranged from 2.2 × 1.7 mm to 4.6 × 3.2 mm, and the median Hunt–Hess score was 3. All aneurysms were completely closed at follow-up, and all 8 patients had excellent clinical outcomes (modified Rankin scores = 0–2) at discharge. Angiograms showed complete aneurysm occlusion after 6 months to 1 year. In addition, there were no cases of re-rupture, re-treatment, or recurrence of the aneurysms. FDDAC is safe to use in patients with BBAs and provides an alternative treatment option for this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ehlers-Danlos type IV or vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is a rare inherited disorder characterized by profound vascular fragility resulting from defective production of type III procollagen. Cerebrovascular diseases including spontaneous dissections, cerebral aneurysms, and cavernous carotid fistulae are common. Endovascular therapies in this patient population are known to be higher risk, although many studies (before 2000) involved older techniques and equipment. The purpose of this study is to investigate the safety and efficacy of modern neuroendovascular techniques in the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases in patients with vEDS. We combined a multi-institutional retrospective case series at 3 quaternary-care centers with a systematic literature review of individual case reports and case series spanning 2000–2021 to evaluate the safety and efficacy of neuroendovascular procedure in patients with vEDS with cerebrovascular diseases. Fifty-nine patients who underwent 66 neuroendovascular procedures were evaluated. Most of the patients had direct cavernous carotid fistulas (DCCF). Neuroendovascular procedures had a 94% success rate, with a complication rate of 30% and a mortality of 7.5%. Neuroendovascular procedures can be performed with a high rate of success in the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases in patients with vEDS, although special care is required because complication rates and mortality are high. Access site and procedure-related vascular injuries remain a significant hurdle in treating vEDS with cerebrovascular diseases, even with modern techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical access to the middle fossa can be technically challenging. As neurosurgery evolves to minimally invasive approaches, the objective of this study is to demonstrate the extension of the Minipterional approach to access the middle fossa. We present a new surgical approach to the middle fossa for the treatment of secondary trigeminal neuralgia. Three cases are reported to illustrate the following techniques: a patient with petrotentorial meningioma and trigeminal neuralgia, a patient with an arachnoid cyst compressing the fifth nerve, and a patient with a middle cerebral artery aneurysm and a long history of TN (trigeminal neuralgia) refractory to medical and surgical treatments. All three experienced full symptom controls with no permanent neurological deficits. Therefore, the Minipterional technique might represent a feasible, effective, and safe option to treat refractory secondary TN. It also allows approaching these lesions when the posterior fossa approach is compromised by anatomical distortion and enables the simultaneous treatment of secondary trigeminal neuralgia and other lesions, such as aneurysms and meningiomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional (3D) printing has been increasingly used in various fields of medicine, such as in auxiliary diagnosis and treatment, medical teaching, and regenerative medicine. Most operations performed by neurosurgeons and associated pathological examinations involve complex, microscopic anatomical structures that cannot be observed outside. 3D-printed models can reproduce anatomical structures, pathological tissues, and cells with high accuracy, enhancing our understanding of complex aspects of anatomy and pathology. They can also assist in preoperative planning and simulation, help in surgical or interventional surgery precision medicine, and improve the effectiveness of treatments. This review comprehensively summarizes and discusses its current application progress and problems, including treatments for common diseases (e.g., intracranial tumors, intracranial hemorrhage, intracranial aneurysms, skull repair, and neural prosthetics), clinical training, and preoperative plans. With its widespread applications, 3D printing as an innovative tool will provide new directions for developing imaging, strategies, and interventions in neurosurgical diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case study of a 48-year-old woman who underwent treatment for a right carotid-ophthalmic saccular aneurysm using a flow-diverter implant. The procedure was successful, but one month later, the patient experienced left-sided weakness and numbness. Brain MRI revealed multiple bilateral supratentorial enhancing lesions surrounded by vasogenic edema, indicating bilateral delayed non-ischemic enhancing brain lesions (NICE). This is a rare complication of endovascular treatment for intracranial aneurysms, typically occurring on the same side as the treatment. The patient was treated with corticosteroids, and her symptoms resolved. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: The Flow Redirection Endoluminal Device (FRED; MicroVention) is a dual-layered flow diverter used for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. The objective of this systematic review was to compile device-related safety and effectiveness data. Methods: The literature from January 1, 2013 to April 30, 2021 was searched for studies describing use of the FRED for intracranial aneurysm treatment irrespective of aneurysm location and morphology. The review included anterior and posterior circulation ruptured and unruptured saccular, fusiform or dissection, and blister aneurysms. MeSH terms related to "flow re-direction endoluminal device" and "FRED for aneurysms" were used. Data related to indication, complications, and rates of aneurysm occlusion were retrieved and analyzed. Results: Twenty-two studies with 1729 intracranial aneurysms were included in this review. Overall reported morbidity was 3.9% (range 0–20%). Overall procedure-related mortality was 1.4% (range 0–6%). Complication rates fell into 5 categories: technical (3.6%), ischemic (3.8%), thrombotic or stenotic (6%), hemorrhagic (1.5%), and non-neurological (0.8%). The aneurysm occlusion rate between 0 and 3 months (reported in 11 studies) was 47.8%. The occlusion rate between 4 and 6 months (reported in 14 studies) was 73.8%. Occlusion rates continued to increase to 75.1% at 7–12 months (reported in 10 studies) and 86.6% for follow-up beyond 1 year (reported in 10 studies). Conclusion: This review indicated that the FRED is a safe and effective for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Future studies should directly compare the FRED with other flow diverters for a better understanding of comparative safety and effectiveness among the different devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coiling and stent-assisted coiling remain the first-line treatments for distal cerebral circulation aneurysms (DCCAs). The off-label use of the pipeline embolization device (PED) for these aneurysms has been explored recently but remains controversial. Objective: To compare traditional endovascular therapeutic approaches (coiling and stent-assisted coiling) and PED for DCCAs in a multicenter cohort of patients. Methods: A multicenter, retrospective cohort comparison study was conducted that included consecutive patients with unruptured DCCAs treated with either traditional endovascular therapeutic approaches or PED placement at three centers between 2016 and 2020. Propensity score matching analysis was applied to adjust for baseline risk factors between the PED and TET groups. Matching was based on age, sex, aneurysm size, location, morphology, adjunctive coiling, treatment history, and preoperative mRS score. Results: In total, 209 patients with DCCAs treated with PED or traditional endovascular therapeutic approaches were identified. Thirty-seven patients underwent PED treatment, and 172 patients underwent traditional endovascular therapeutic approaches. After propensity score matching, 37 aneurysm pairs were matched, and the baseline characteristics of the patients were balanced between the groups. The complete occlusion rate between PED and traditional endovascular therapeutic approach in both matched cohorts (91.7 vs. 92.3%, p > 0.78) was similar. The rate of periprocedural treatment-related complications in both the PED and traditional endovascular therapeutic groups was 13.5%. Univariate analysis identified average parent vessel diameter as the only predictor of complete occlusion (p = 0.038). Conclusions: PED is a viable option for treating DCCAs by providing occlusion and complication rates similar to those of traditional endovascular therapeutic approaches. A rigid patient selection procedure and proper planning should be undertaken to reduce treatment-related complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with neurovascular disorders sometimes approach the ophthalmologists with mild ophthalmic clinical features such as conjunctival congestion, slowly progressive proptosis, lateral rectus palsies and at other times with ophthalmic emergencies like sudden increase in proptosis, ophthalmoplegia, diplopia, and ptosis before the onset of neurological manifestations which may be life-threatening if not detected in time. The aim of this article is to focus on ophthalmic manifestations of neurovascular emergencies and role of ophthalmologists in its management. In this communication, to make the ophthalmologist aware of clinical presentations, the imaging modality of choice, diagnostic features, medical and interventional treatments. We have searched PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and reviewed some of the commonly encountered neurovascular emergencies with ocular manifestations such as carotid-cavernous fistula, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, cerebral artery aneurysms, arterio-venous malformations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A flow diverter (FD) has been a promising endovascular therapeutic modality for challenging intracranial aneurysms. However, stent migration has been an unusual complication. Until recently, among some types of FDs, the migration of the flow-redirection endoluminal device (FRED; MicroVention Inc., Aliso Viejo, CA, USA) has almost never been reported. Herein, we report a case of acute distal migration of a single FRED secondary to in-stent thrombi with symptomatic ischemic stroke and review the literature on the distal migration of FDs. Case Description: A 35-year-old woman was diagnosed with a left unruptured internal carotid-ophthalmic artery aneurysm. A 3.5 mm diameter and 17 mm long FRED was adequately deployed. The patient awoke from general anesthesia without neurological deficits. However, shortly after the procedure, the patient presented with conjugate deviation toward the left side, right severe hemiparesis, and total aphasia. Although the symptoms gradually improved, angiography was performed. Angiography revealed some in-stent thrombi and distal migration of the FRED, and initially, one of the left M2 inferior trunk branches was occluded by an embolic thrombus. However, the thrombus spontaneously migrated distally without any specific treatment. Finally, despite leaving the migrated stent in situ, the flow almost completely improved, and the patient's neurologic deficits disappeared. Magnetic resonance imaging following treatment revealed only a small cerebral infarction in the left temporo-occipital area. Conclusion: Distal migration of an FD in an acute setting, including the FRED, may occur even following appropriate placement. In-stent thrombosis can cause distal stent migration and thromboembolic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite advances in endovascular techniques, microsurgery continues to play an important role in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms. This article reviews the history of surgical treatment of intracranial aneurysms and the evolving role of microsurgery in the endovascular era. Although endovascular tools and techniques have changed significantly since the placement of the first Guglielmi coils in 1990, with the development of endoluminal flow-diverting stents and now endosaccular flow-diverting devices, microsurgical treatment of aneurysms has also continued to evolve. Since the first treatment with Hunterian ligation by Horsley in the 1800s, surgical treatment of intracranial aneurysms has advanced significantly beginning with the introduction of the microscope and microsurgical techniques in the 1950s. More recent advances in microsurgical treatment of aneurysms include microsurgical adjuncts, such as indocyanine green angiography, adenosine, and the exoscope, as well as tailored craniotomies, retractorless surgery, and novel bypass constructs for complex aneurysms. Microsurgery continues to play an important role in the endovascular era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) are rare lesions managed mainly with endovascular treatment (EVT) and/or surgery. We hypothesize that there may be subtypes of dAVFs responding better to a specific treatment modality in terms of successful obliteration and cessation of symptoms and/or risks. Methods: All dAVFs treated during 2011–2018 at our hospital were analyzed retrospectively. Presenting symptoms, radiological variables, treatment modality, complications, and residual symptoms were related to dAVF type using the original Djindjian classification. Results: We treated 112 dAVFs in 107 patients (71, 66% males). They presented with hemorrhage (n = 23; 21%), non-hemorrhagic symptoms (n = 75; 70%), or were discovered incidentally (n = 9; 8%). There were 25 (22%) type I, 29 (26%) type II, 26 (23%) type III, and 32 (29%) type IV fistulas. EVT was the primary treatment modality in 72/112 (64%) dAVFs whereas 40/112 (36%) underwent primary surgery with angiographic obliteration rates of 60% and 90%, respectively. Using a secondary treatment modality in 23 dAVFs, we obtained a final obliteration rate of 93%, including all type III/IV and 26/27 (96%) type II dAVFs. Except for headache, residual symptoms were rare and minor. Permanent neurological complications consisted of five cranial nerve deficits. Conclusions: We recommend EVT as first treatment modality in types I, II, and in non-hemorrhagic type III/IV dAVFs. We recommend surgery as first treatment choice in acute hemorrhagic dAVFs and as secondary choice in type III/IV dAVFs not successfully occluded by EVT. Combining the two modalities provides obliteration in 9/10 dAVF cases at a low procedural risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Localized delivery of diagnostic/therapeutic agents to cerebral aneurysms, lesions in brain arteries, may offer a new treatment paradigm. Since aneurysm rupture leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage is a devastating medical emergency with high mortality, the ability to noninvasively diagnose high‐risk aneurysms is of paramount importance. Moreover, treatment of unruptured aneurysms with invasive surgery or minimally invasive neurointerventional surgery poses relatively high risk and there is presently no medical treatment of aneurysms. Here, leveraging the endogenous biophysical properties of brain aneurysms, we develop particulate carriers designed to localize in aneurysm low‐shear flows as well as to adhere to a diseased vessel wall, a known characteristic of high‐risk aneurysms. We first show, in an in vitro model, flow guided targeting to aneurysms using micron‐sized (2 μm) particles, that exhibited enhanced targeting (>7 folds) to the aneurysm cavity while smaller nanoparticles (200 nm) showed no preferable accumulation. We then functionalize the microparticles with glycoprotein VI (GPVI), the main platelet receptor for collagen under low‐medium shear, and study their targeting in an in vitro reconstructed patient‐specific aneurysm that contained a disrupted endothelium at the cavity. Results in this model showed that GPVI microparticles localize at the injured aneurysm an order of magnitude (>9 folds) more than control particles. Finally, effective targeting to aneurysm sites was also demonstrated in an in vivo rabbit aneurysm model with a disrupted endothelium. Altogether, the presented biophysical strategy for targeted delivery may offer new treatment opportunities for cerebral aneurysms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrasaccular flow disruption is an innovative approach for the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms. As of now, only one device is currently available worldwide: the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device (MicroVention, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA). After 10 years of clinical use and careful clinical evaluation of the WEB device by multiple prospective, multicenter studies, this article is summarizing the current knowledge regarding this endovascular technique; indications, modalities, safety and efficacy of the WEB procedure are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Woven Endobridge (WEB; Microvention, Aliso Viejo, California, USA) is a relatively new device which has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of wide necked bifurcation aneurysms in multiple prospective Good Clinical Practice studies. However, the vast majority of aneurysms included in these studies have been unruptured. The aim of this review is to summarise the current evidence available on the treatment of ruptured aneurysms with the WEB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stent-assisted coil-jailing technique was initially introduced as an effective and secure method in the treatment of large wide-necked intracranial aneurysms. Later on, this technique has proved its efficiency in the safety and optimal treatment of very small aneurysms. In this article, we will present the successful treatment of a very small middle cerebral artery aneurysm using the stent-assisted coil-jailing technique and review the current trends in this type of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertebral artery variations are rare developmental anomalies. Although these variations are generally asymptomatic; it can predispose such pathologies as dissection, intracranial aneurysm. Additionally, these variations can effect on the treatment plan and endovascular / surgical approach.In our case, bilateral vertebral artery variations accompanying the abberant right subclavian artery were presented and abnormal origin and high foraminal entry variation were observed in the right vertebral artery. On the basis of this variation, symptomatic dissection was observed at the level of the foraminal segment of the right vertebral artery. A metallic stent was placed by endovascular approach, however the stent was compressed in follow-up period.Abnormal vascular origin, branching and running variations in functional vascular anatomy significantly affects the incidence of disease and treatment success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Blebs are rupture risk factors in intracranial aneurysms (lAs), but their prevalence, distribution, and associations with clinical factors as well as their causes and effects on aneurysm vulnerability remain unclear. Methods A total of 122 blebs in 270 lAs selected for surgery were studied using patient-specific vascular reconstructions from 3D angiographic images. Bleb geometry, location on the aneurysm, and frequency of occurrence in aneurysms at different locations were analyzed. Associations between gender, age, smoking, hypertension, hormone therapy, dental infection, and presence of blebs were investigated. Results Of all aneurysms with blebs, 77% had a single bleb and 23% had multiple blebs. Only 6% of blebs were at the neck, while 46% were in the body and 48% in the dome. Aneurysms with blebs were larger (p<0.0001), more elongated (p=0.0002), and with wider necks than aneurysms without blebs. Bleb presence was associated with dental infection (p=0.0426) and negatively associated with hormone therapy (p=0.0426) in women. Anterior and posterior communicating arteries had larger percentages of aneurysms with blebs than internal carotid arteries. Patients with a history of hypertension tended to have a larger percentage of aneurysms with blebs. However, these trends did not reach significance in this sample. Conclusions Blebs are common in I As, and most aneurysms harboring blebs have a single bleb. Blebs in the aneurysm neck are rare, but they are equally common in the body and dome. The presence of blebs in I As was associated with dental infection, and negatively associated with hormone replacement therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DSA findings then form the basis for planning dAVF treatment, where optimal EVT is to occlude the "foot of the vein" draining the dAVF. As in aSAH, pre-treatment DSA is essential in few selected cases only, and routine DSA before clipping may represent an unnecessary treatment delay. When correcting for the effect of the treatment delay by excluding all pre-treatment rebleeds, there was no longer any significant difference with regard to long-term outcome between surgical and EVT cases. Performing long-term angiographic follow-up in all patients, Spetzler et al. [[16]] further documented that surgical clipping resulted in sustained aneurysm obliteration over time whereas aneurysm obliteration continued to decrease over time in the patients who underwent coiling. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Several studies have reported that the outcomes of endovascular treatment were superior to those of microsurgical treatment for posterior circulation aneurysms. Thus, this study compared outcomes of endovascular and microsurgical treatment for posterior circulation aneurysms and assess the usefulness of microsurgery in these patients. Methods: Outcomes were retrospectively evaluated after endovascular and microsurgical treatment of 621 posterior circulation aneurysms. The 621 aneurysms included 187 treated by surgical clipping and 434 treated by endovascular coiling. Results: In patients with unruptured aneurysms the rates of residual lesions and retreatment were significantly lower in those who underwent microsurgical than endovascular treatment. However immediate postoperative and 6 month follow-up Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) scores did not differ significantly in the two groups. In patients with ruptured aneurysms, the rates of residual lesions and retreatment were significantly lower in the microsurgery than in the endovascular treatment group. Even so immediate postoperative and 6 month follow-up GOS scores did not differ significantly in the two groups. Conclusions: Endovascular treatment has increasingly become an alternative modality for microsurgery in posterior circulation aneurysm, whereas the indication for microsurgery is greatly reduced. However, the absolute number of microsurgery is maintained showing that it is a still valuable technique, as advances in endovascular or stent-assisted coiling have not solved many of the challenges inherent in the management of complex aneurysms. Hence, the advantages and limitations of both modalities must be carefully concerned in posterior circulation aneurysm to obtain favorable outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incidentally found unruptured intracranial aneurysms are increasing because of the popularity of medical checkups with cerebrovascular imaging and the recent growing interest in health. Accordingly, surgical or endovascular treatments are also increasing in prevalence to improve aneurysm-related symptoms or prevent the rupture of aneurysms causing devastating conditions. However, treatment plans should be carefully determined based on the natural history of aneurysms, comorbidities of the patients, and institutional situations because of the relatively low risk of rupture, no uncommon treatment-related complications, and considerable economical and psychological burdens. Recently, domestic and international clinical guidelines for unruptured intracranial aneurysms were introduced, and the guidelines have been continuously revised according to advancements in imaging and treatment techniques. Here, this review paper introduces the clinical characteristics of unruptured intracranial aneurysms including the epidemiology, risk factors of development, growth and rupture, natural course, symptoms and signs, imaging tools for diagnosis and follow-up, and treatment methods. This paper also includes recent international prospective trials, analytic reports with big data from national health insurance and health insurance review and assessment services, and the guidelines of Korea and other foreign countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate posterior cerebral artery (PCA) aneurysms along with the efficacy, safety, procedural, and clinical outcome of the endovascular management of these aneurysms. We studied different techniques of endovascular treatment such as selective aneurysmal coiling, parent artery occlusion, and stent-assisted coiling in PCA aneurysms.Methods: From 2010 to 2017, 11 patients (8 females, 3 males) harboring a PCA aneurysm were treated via an endovascular approach. Seven of eleven aneurysms were saccular in nature; four were fusiform shaped. All aneurysms were treated using detachable coils either by selective obliteration of the aneurysm sac or by parent artery occlusion. In one patient, stent-assisted coiling of PCA aneurysm was done, and in one patient, flowdivertor along with few coils used to treat the aneurysm.Results: Five of the eleven aneurysms were successfully treated with preservation of the parent artery, and the other six were treated with aneurysm coiling along with parent vessel occlusion. Of the six where parent vessel occlusion was done, one developed transient hemiparesis which recovered on follow-up and none developed significant disabling vision abnormality. No mortality was noted.Conclusion: Aneurysms of the PCA are rare compared with other locations in the intracranial circulation. These aneurysms can effectively be treated by permanent occlusion of the parent artery even in this era of flowdivertors - however, in these cases, thorough knowledge of PCA segmental anatomy is crucial in order to select the site of occlusion and to avoid major neurological deficits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the incidence and treatment trends of hemorrhagic stroke (HS), according to HS subtypes, using nationwide data in Korea from January 2008 to December 2016. Methods: We used data from the national health-claim database provided by the National Health Insurance Service for 2008-2016 using the International Classification of Diseases. The crude incidence and age-standardized incidence of each disease associated with HS, which included intracranial aneurysm (IA), hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and arteriovenous malformation (AVM), were calculated and additional analysis was conducted according to age and sex. Changes in trends in treatment methods and number of treatments were analyzed for each cerebrovascular disease using the Korean Classification of Diseases procedure codes. Results: In 2016, the total number of newly diagnosed adult patients with HS was 24169, showing a decrease by 7.0% since 2008; the age-standardized incidence of HS was 46.2 per 100000 person-years. The age-standardized incidence of unruptured IA (UIA) in adults was 71.4 per 100000 person-years--increased by 2.6-fold since 2008--while that of ruptured IA (RIA) was 12.6 per 100000 person-years, which had decreased at a rate of 20.3% since 2008. The number of coil embolization (CE) for UIA increased by 3.4-fold over 9 years and exceeded that of clipping since 2008. With respect to RIA, CE increased by 2.0-fold over 9 years and exceeded that of clipping from 2014. As for spontaneous ICH in adults, the age-standardized incidence was 31.3 per 100000 personyears in 2016--decreased by 34.7% since 2008--and 14.6% of patients diagnosed with ICH were treated in 2016, which was not significantly different from the proportion of patients treated since 2008. The age-standardized incidence of unruptured AVM (UAVM) was 2.0 per 100000 person-year in 2016, while that of ruptured AVM (RAVM) was 2.4 per 100000 person-years in 2016, showing a decreasing rate of 17.2% from 2008. The total number of treated patients with AVM declined since 2014. Conclusion: In Korea, age-related cerebral vascular diseases, such as RIA, ICH, and RAVM, demonstrated a declining trend in agestandardized incidence; meanwhile, UIA and UAVM demonstrated an increased trend in both crude incidence and age-standardized incidence for 9 years. The increase in the elderly population, management of hypertension, and development of diagnostic and endovascular techniques appear to have influenced this trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have not evaluated the impact of illness severity and postrupture procedures in the cost of care for intracranial aneurysms. We hypothesize that the severity of aneurysm rupture and the aggressiveness of postrupture interventions play a role in cost. Methods: The Value Driven Outcomes database was used to assess direct patient cost during the treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysm with clipping, coiling, and Pipeline flow diverters. Results: One hundred ninety-eight patients (mean age 52.8 ± 14.1 years; 40.0% male) underwent craniotomy (64.6%), coiling (26.7%), or flow diversion (8.6%). Coiling was 1.4× more expensive than clipping (p =.005) and flow diversion was 1.7× more expensive than clipping (p <.001). More severe illness as measured by American Society of Anesthesia, Hunt/Hess, and Fisher scales incurred higher costs than less severe illness (p <.05). Use of a lumbar drain protocol to reduce subarachnoid hemorrhage and use of an external ventricular drain to manage intracranial pressure were associated with reduced (p =.05) and increased (p <.001) total costs, respectively. Patients with severe vasospasm (p <.005), those that received shunts (p <.001), and those who had complications (p <.001) had higher costs. Multivariate analysis showed that procedure type, length of stay, number of angiograms, vasospasm severity, disposition, and year of treatment were independent predictors of cost. Conclusions: These results show for the first time that disease and vasospasm severity and intensity of treatment directly impact the cost of care for patients with aneurysms in the USA. Strategies to alter these variables may prove important for cost reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We sought to evaluate the epidemiology of intracranial aneurysms in relation to location, gender, age, presence of multiple aneurysms, and comorbidities in the Brazilian population. Methods: We performed a prospective analysis of a cohort of 1404 patients diagnosed with intracranial aneurysm admitted to the Hospital das Clinicas of the University of Sao Paulo, a referral hospital for the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases in Brazil. Patients admitted between September 2009 and September 2018 with radiological diagnosis of intracranial aneurysm were included in the study. Results: A total of 2251 aneurysms were diagnosed. Females accounted for 1090 aneurysms (77.6%) and the mean age at diagnosis was 54.9 years (ranging 15-88). The most common location was middle cerebral artery (MCA) with 593 aneurysms (26.3%) followed by anterior cerebral artery (ACA) with 417 aneurysms (18.5%) and internal carotid artery in the posterior communicating segment with 405 aneurysms (18.0%). Males had higher rates of ACA aneurysms (29.7%) while females had higher rates of MCA aneurysms (26.1%). Sorting by size, 492 aneurysms were <5 mm (21.8%), 1524 measured 5-10 mm (67.7%), 119 size 11-24 mm (5.3%), and 116 were >24 mm (5.2%). The occurrence of multiple aneurysms was associated with female gender (P < 0.001) and smoking (P < 0.001), but not with hypertension (P = 0.121). Conclusion: In this population, the occurrence of intracranial aneurysm is related to several factors, including gender, age, smoking, and hypertension. Our study brought to light important characteristics of a large number of Brazilian patients regarding epidemiology, location, size, and multiplicity of intracranial aneurysms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subarachnoid hemorrhage resulting from intracranial aneurysms (IAs) is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Although trigger mechanisms in the pathogenesis of IAs have not been fully elucidated, accumulating evidence has demonstrated that inflammation acts as a critical contributor to aneurysm pathogenesis. IAs is initiated by disruption and dysfunction of endothelial cells (ECs) caused by abnormal wall shear stress (WSS). Subsequently, vascular inflammation can trigger a series of biochemical reactions resulting in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) apoptosis and migration, accompanied by inflammatory cell infiltration, secretion of various cytokines, and inflammatory factors. These changes result in degradation of vascular wall, leading to the progression and eventual rupture of IAs. Increasing our knowledge of the pathogenesis of these lesions will offer physicians new options for prevention and treatment. In this study, we review aneurysmal pathogenesis to seek for safe, effective, and non-invasive therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Very small intracranial aneurysms (VSIAs) may cause many neurological complications and even death. Thanks to technological progress and higher quality of non-invasive neuroimaging methods, these pathologies can be investigated sooner and treated earlier. Due to the controversy surrounding invasive treatment of these pathologies, the aim of the study was to analyse methods of treatment, their outcome, and complications in a group of patients with VSIAs. Material and methods: Out of 444 cases of intracranial aneurysms treated in our centre, 65 aneurysms met the radiological criteria of VSIAs. The parameters - width and length of the aneurysm's neck and width, length, and height of the aneurysm's dome - were measured. The analysed parameters were as follows: symptoms upon admission and after treatment, days in hospital, and intraoperative complications. Clinical and radiological intensity of subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) was evaluated by using the Hunt-Hess and Fisher scales. The degree of embolisation of the aneurysm after the procedure was assessed using the Montreal Scale. Clinical outcome was assessed by Glasgow Outcome Scale. Results: 50.77% of VSIAs were treated with endovascular procedures and 49.23% with neurosurgical clipping. SAH was presented in 38.46% of patients with VSIAs. Intraoperative complications were presented in 16.92% of patients with VSIAs, and the most common complication was ischaemic stroke. Stents were used in 51.52% of VSIAs. In 69.70% of embolisation procedures at VSIAs complete obliteration was achieved. The average result in the Montreal Scale was 1.31 (SD = 0.66). Conclusion: VSIAs can be treated as effectively and safely as larger aneurysms, by both endovascular and surgical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background High frequency optical coherence tomography (HF-OCT) is a novel intravascular imaging technology developed for use in the cerebral vasculature. We hypothesize that HF-OCT characterization of intrasaccular device neck coverage can prognosticate exclusion of the aneurysm from the circulation. Methods Bifurcation and sidewall aneurysms were made in six dogs. Seven aneurysms were treated with next generation intrasaccular devices (NGID) and four with traditional platinum coils. HF-OCT was performed to interrogate gaps in the neck coverage, coil herniation, or acute thrombus formation. Animals were re-imaged at 7, 30, 90, and 180 days following aneurysm embolization. An automated image processing method segmented the devices at the neck of the aneurysm and quantified neck coverage. The largest coverage gap was used to predict aneurysm occlusion at 180 days. Results No difference was found in occlusion rates between the coil and NGID groups (P=0.45). Successful segmentation of the NGID construct was achieved in all cases. A coverage gap >1mm2 was found to predict failed aneurysm occlusion (P=0.047). This threshold was able to predict all cases of failed occlusion. The average number of devices needed to treat the aneurysm was lower in the NGID group (1.9 vs 6.75, P=0.009). HF-OCT showed strong agreement with scanning electron microscopy (bias 0.0024mm2 (95% CI -0.0279, 0.0327)). Conclusions HF-OCT enables precise and accurate measurement of coverage gaps at the neck of aneurysms treated with intrasaccular devices in vivo. We provide in vivo evidence that uniform aneurysm neck coverage by intrasaccular devices is critical for aneurysm occlusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Advances in stent-assisted coiling have incrementally expanded endovascular treatment options for complex cerebral aneurysms. After successful coil consolidation and aneurysm occlusion, endovascular scaffolds are no longer needed. Thus, bioresorbable stents that disappear after aneurysm healing could avoid future risks of in-stent thrombosis and the need for lifelong antiplatelet therapy. Objective To assess the applicability and compatibility of a bioresorbable magnesium- alloy stent (brMAS) for assisted coiling. Methods Saccular sidewall aneurysms were created in 84 male Wistar rats and treated with brMAS alone, brMAS + aspirin, or brMAS + coils + aspirin. Control groups included no treatment (natural course), solely aspirin treatment, or conventional cobalt--chromium stent + coils + aspirin treatment. After 1 and 4 weeks, aneurysm specimens were harvested and macroscopically, histologically, and molecularly examined for healing, parent artery perfusion status, and inflammatory reactions. Stent degradation was monitored for up to 6 months with micro-computed and optical coherence tomography. Results Aneurysms treated with brMAS showed advanced healing, neointima formation, and subsequent stent degradation. Additional administration of aspirin sustained aneurysm healing while reducing stent-induced intraluminal and periadventitial inflammatory responses. No negative interaction was detected between platinum coils and brMAS. Progressive brMAS degradation was confirmed. Conclusions brMAS induced appropriate healing in this sidewall aneurysm model. The concept of using bioresorbable materials to promote complete aneurysm healing and subsequent stent degradation seems promising. These results should encourage further device refinements and clinical evaluation of this treatment strategy for cerebrovascular aneurysms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Flow diversion using the Pipeline embolization device (PED) has become a widely used treatment method for intracranial aneurysms. However, a subset of aneurysms will fail to occlude following treatment and the factors that influence the efficacy of flow diversion remain uncertain. As smaller diameter PEDs inherently have greater metal density than larger devices, we elected to investigate whether PED diameter influences treatment efficacy when using a single device. We also evaluated other factors that may influence treatment outcomes with PED. Methods We retrospectively evaluated all patients treated for an intracranial saccular aneurysm at our institution with a single PED at least 12 months prior to the time of data collection. Patients treated with multiple devices, adjunctive coiling, traumatic and fusiform target aneurysms, as well as patients with inadequate imaging follow-up (<12 months) were excluded. Results 158 aneurysms in 124 patients (128 treatments) met the inclusion criteria for our study. 123 aneurysms (80%) were occluded over an average follow-up of 26.6 months. Multivariable logistic regression showed that branch vessel incorporation into the target aneurysm sac (p<0.001, OR=0.15) was significantly associated with aneurysm persistence, while smaller PED diameter was significantly associated with aneurysm occlusion (p=0.008; OR=0.30). Conclusions PED diameter significantly impacts outcomes when using a single device for the treatment of small anterior circulation intracranial saccular aneurysms, most likely due to the inherent greater metal density of smaller devices. This factor should be taken into account when planning endovascular aneurysm treatment with PED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Highly porous shape memory nanocomposite foam fabricated using a biological safe sugar template method. • Uniform carbon nanotube distribution obtained within nanocomposites using ultrasonication. • Resistive-heating triggered shape recovery of 50% compressive deformation in two minutes. This paper presents the novel development of highly porous carbon nanotube (CNT)/shape memory polymer (SMP) nanocomposites for potential endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms (ICAs). Pristine SMP foam is fabricated using a sugar template method. CNT/SMP nanocomposites are fabricated by infiltrating CNTs into the pristine SMP foam in ethanol via ultrasonication. The porous nanocomposites are characterized to identify key parameters, such as the average pore size, density, porosity and electrical resistivity. A resistive-heating mechanism is developed to trigger shape recovery of the nanocomposites. The results of this work will lay a solid foundation for our subsequent development of new personalized biomedical devices to treat ICAs using a catheter-based endovascular procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrombosed aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) usually show large dimension and complex morphology with neck sclerosis and perforating vessels originating from the sac. Only limited experiences from case reports or small mixed series including thrombosed aneurysms in different locations are available in literature. To systematically review all the pertinent literature, a comprehensive literature review with the search terms "MCA, aneurysm, and thrombosis" and a pooled analysis including our institutional series were performed. We evaluated demographics, ruptured status, aneurysm morphology, topography and size, thrombosis extension, treatment, complications, final occlusion rate, and clinical outcome at follow-up. Data were individually extracted for each patient and included in a pool for the statistical analysis. Forty-two articles published between 1992 and 2016 were selected, including a total of 115 patients. Most of thrombosed aneurysms were saccular (67.6%), large or giant (86.7%), and located at the MCA bifurcation (67.3%). The treatment of choice was surgery in more than 80% of cases compared with the endovascular techniques, though the overall percentage of complications reported in the two groups was similar and around 20% of cases. Clinical outcome was favorable in more than 85% of patients after treatment. This is the first systematic review focusing on treatment and outcome of thrombosed MCA aneurysms. Our data depict their main angioarchictectural and clinical characteristics, proving the feasibility of their treatment with good prognosis in a high percentage of patients. However, complication and mortality rates of about 20 and 3.5%, respectively, are not negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of ruptured intracranial aneurysm in elderly patients is still a major challenge in the treatment of cerebrovascular disease. This study aimed to evaluate safety and efficacy profiles of ruptured intracranial aneurysms in elderly patients treated with endovascular techniques (EVTs). We conducted a retrospective case review of 53 consecutive elderly patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms treated by EVT between the year 2011 and 2016. The patients' angiographic outcomes, clinical outcomes, and procedure-related complications were reviewed retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate logistic analysis were applied to determine the risk factors of aneurysm recurrence and clinical prognosis. In 29 (54.7%) patients, the treatment was attempted with coiling alone. The vascular remodeled technique was applied in 24 (45.3%) patients. At a median angiographic follow-up of 9 months, 35 (67.3%) aneurysms showed stable, 9 (17.3%) were improvement, and 8 (15.4%) were recurrent. According to the multivariate analysis, the size of the aneurysm was independently associated with increased risk of aneurysm recurrence (odds ratio, 1.92; 95% confidence interval, 1.181–2.211; p = 0.006). High Hunt–Hess grade at admission was an independent predictor of poor functional outcome in the multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 5.93; 95% confidence interval, 1.878–33.63; p = 0.008). In 8 (15.1%) patients, it resulted in procedure-related complications. EVT of ruptured intracranial aneurysms in elderly patients is safe, effective, and have low recurrent rate. Recurrence after EVT for ruptured aneurysms is common in cases of large-size aneurysms. The overall clinical outcome was worst in patients presented with high Hunt–Hess grade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mortality and morbidity rate of subarachnoid hemorrhage is quite high. The incidence of intracranial aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in women, especially in postmenopausal women, is significantly higher than that in men, which is related to estrogen deficiency. Estrogen replacement therapy can reduce the risk of developing it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inflammatory response plays a vital role in cerebral aneurysm (CA) formation and progression. Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) is one of the major active components of Chinese medicine Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge) and is widely used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, due to its anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether Tan IIA can attenuate CA formation in rat models, and determine its underlying mechanisms. CAs were induced in rats surgically and through high-salt diet treatments. The Tan IIA-treated group displayed relatively mild symptoms, as compared with the control group. Tan IIA treatment reduced macrophage infiltration and nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation in aneurysmal walls. Next, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells were used to examine the anti-inflammatory effects of Tan IIA on macrophages. It was found that Tan IIA reversed LPS-induced differentiation of RAW 264.7 cells and suppressed NF-κB pathway activation. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that Tan IIA can suppress CA formation by inhibiting inflammatory responses in macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To systematically assess the efficacy and safety between flow diversion and coiling for patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Potential academic articles were identified from Cochrane Library, Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, and other databases. The time range we retrieved from was the inception of electronic databases to February 2019. Gray studies were identified from the references of included literature reports. STATA version 11.0 was used to analyze the pooled data. A total of 11 articles (10 retrospective studies and 1 prospective study) were involved in our study. The overall participants of the coiling group were 611, whereas 576 were in the flow diversion group. Our meta-analysis showed that flow diversion was preferable for unruptured intracranial aneurysms as its lower value of total cost per case (weighted mean difference, 5705.906; 95% confidence interval [CI], [4938.536, 6473236]; P < 0.001), fluoroscopy time per case (weighted mean difference, 25.786; 95% CI, 17.169–34.377; P < 0.001), and retreatment rates (odds ratio [OR], 7.127; 95% CI, [3.525, 14.410]; P < 0.001), at the same time, a higher rate of immediate completed occlusion (OR, 0.390; 95% CI, [0.224, 0.680]; P = 0.001) and follow-up completed occlusion (OR, 0.173; 95% CI, [0.080, 0.375]; P < 0.001) was demonstrated in the flow diversion group. There was no difference on intraoperative complication rates (P = 0.070), procedure-related mortality (P = 0.609) and rupture rates (P = 0.408), modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–2 at discharge (P = 0.077), and mRS 0–2 at follow-up (P = 0.484). The use of flow diversion for the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms may reduce total cost per case, fluoroscopy time per case, retreatment rates, and increases immediate completed occlusion and follow-up completed occlusion rates without affecting the results of mRS and intraoperative complication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In selected cases, embolization can be indicated for very small unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Previous studies reported high intraprocedural rupture rates. Recent improvements of endovascular devices and availability of small, soft platinum coils may lead to improved safety and efficacy profiles. Retrospective review of embolizations for unruptured and ruptured intracranial aneurysms with maximal diameter ≤3 mm between January 1, 2009, and January 15, 2018. Infectious aneurysms were excluded. Patient files were used to extract aneurysm characteristics, complications, and immediate and long-term results. We identified 99 embolizations for 97 patients with 100 aneurysms, of which 70 aneurysms were unruptured. Initial success rate was 92.9%. We observed 1 asymptomatic intraprocedural perforation of an unruptured aneurysm, accounting for 1.4% of unruptured cases (1% of all embolizations). Neurological morbidity was 2.8% for unruptured aneurysms and 3.3% for ruptured aneurysms (P = 0.89). There was no procedural mortality. Follow-up was available for 85 (93.4%) patients. After 28.2 months (2–77), there was no aneurysmal bleeding; 2 (2.2%) aneurysms needed retreatment. Long-term results (30.5 months [3–77]) were available for all unruptured aneurysms. Among 64 successfully embolized unruptured aneurysms, 5 (7.8%) had residual neck filling and 1 (1.5%) needed retreatment. There were no significant differences in patient characteristics or complications between ruptured and unruptured aneurysms. In the context of technical evolution of endovascular devices, we observed a procedural perforation rate lower than previously reported, low morbidity and no mortality. Further prospective studies are warranted to update our knowledge about safety of embolization for very small intracranial aneurysms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-day readmissions (30dRAs) and 90-day readmissions (90dRAs) are being increasingly scrutinized as quality metrics for hospital and provider performances. Little information regarding risk factors for 30dRA and 90dRA after elective cerebral aneurysm clipping (CAC) of unruptured cerebral aneurysms is available. We sought to characterize risk factors with a nationally representative administrative database. The Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to identify patients who underwent elective CAC between 2010 and 2014. The outcomes of interest were unplanned readmissions occurring within 30 or 90 days of discharge. Binary logistic regression was used to identify variables related to patients' demographics, comorbidities, and index hospital admission that were associated with readmission. A Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test was used to evaluate for changes in annual readmission rates. A total of 1123 patients met the inclusion criteria for 30dRA analysis and 946 patients were eligible for 90dRA analysis. The 5-year 30dRA and 90dRA readmission rates were 9.1% and 14.9%, respectively. The annual rate of readmission between 2010 and 2014 did not change. Greater Charlson Comorbidity Index (odds ratio [OR], 2.68; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–6.28) and nonroutine discharge after the index admission (OR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.04–3.14) were associated with greater odds of 30dRA. Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR, 3.45; 95% CI, 1.57–7.56) and treatment at a metropolitan teaching hospital (OR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.06–4.60) were associated with increased odds of 90dRA. Wound infection was the most common reason for readmission. Readmission rates after elective CAC remained unchanged between 2010 and 2014, suggesting that improved methods for reducing unplanned readmissions after CAC are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although endovascular coiling of unruptured aneurysms is widely accepted, the endovascular treatment of wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms remains one of the most challenging morphologies. Our purpose was to describe our experience with 24-month follow-up for the treatment of unruptured intracranial bifurcation aneurysms using the PulseRider (Cerenovus, New Brunswick, NJ). This study is a single-center, single-arm registry performed under institutional review board control to evaluate efficacy and safety of the PulseRider. Patients with bifurcation aneurysms were identified and enrolled prospectively. Angiography immediately after treatment and at 6 months, and magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiography at 12- and 24-month follow-up were retrospectively analyzed. A modified Rankin score was obtained prior to procedure, at discharge, and at 6-, 12- and 24-month follow-up visits. Eight patients with a mean age of 66 years were treated with the PulseRider. All patients had bifurcation aneurysms (2 anterior communicating, 2 carotid terminus, and 4 basilar apex). The aneurysm diameters ranged from 4.6 to 13.6 mm (mean 7.4 mm) with dome/neck ratio ranging from 1.4 to 2.2 (mean 1.6). In all cases, the PulseRider was successfully deployed. Complete occlusion was demonstrated at 6-month follow-up on 6 of 8 (75%), near complete occlusion in 1 of 8 (12.5%), and residual aneurysm in 1 of 8 (12.5%) patients. There was no change or recurrence on magnetic resonance angiography, nor clinical complication after the procedure through 24-month follow-up. Our experience with 24-month follow-up demonstrated favorable efficacy in the treatment of intracranial wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms using the PulseRider. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endovascular coiling is generally considered as an effective treatment option for ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Increasing operator experience and quality of tools determined an improvement of endovascular cerebral aneurysms' treatment. However, procedure-related complications still occur. The purpose of this study is to report a series of rescue stenting procedures with the Neuroform Atlas (NA) open-cell stent, for intraprocedural complications during coil embolization in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Between April 2016 and January 2018, 12 consecutive coil protrusions that occurred during ruptured aneurysms' embolizations were rescued using NA stenting together with tirofiban therapy. Follow-up was performed with initial magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) at 1 month and then MRA plus standard digital subtraction angiography at 11–13 months after the procedure. Technical success was achieved in 100% of patients. No NA stent delivery/deployment complication occurred. Initial MRA showed complete occlusion of the aneurysm, with evidence of blood flow into parent vessels in 12 out of 12 cases. At 11–13 months, MRA and digital subtraction angiography showed 10 complete occlusion cases and 1 partial occlusion case. At 2 months, 1 death occurred due to subarachnoid hemorrhage. The open-cell NA stent represents a rescue option for coil protrusion during endovascular treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms allowing regular restoration of blood flow and minimizing thromboembolic events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: WEB (Woven EndoBridge) device is an intrasaccular flow diverter designed for endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Recent clinical trials showed good feasibility, safety, and efficacy profiles. In most of the published studies however, aneurysms treated with adjunctive devices other than WEB such as coils or stents were included which might make it difficult to reflect the real potential of this device. The purpose of this single-center study was to present the results of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms treated only with WEB device. Method: Between April 2013 and July 2018, 47 (ruptured, 12; 25.5%) intracranial aneurysms treated only with WEB and a follow-up of at least 3 months were included in the study. Angiographic outcome at follow-up, peri-procedural complication rate, and rate of retreatment were recorded. Results: Of the 47 aneurysms, 12 (25.5%) were ruptured. The mean size of the aneurysms was 6.3 mm (ruptured, 5.4 mm; unruptured, 6.6 mm). Median follow-up period was 9 months. Complete occlusion was observed in 26/47 aneurysms (55.3%; ruptured, 66.6%; unruptured, 51.4%). Thirteen aneurysms (27.6%; ruptured, 16.6%; unruptured, 31.4%) showed a neck remnant. In 4/47 aneurysms (8.5%; ruptured, 8%; unruptured, 8.5%), persistent contrast enhancement inside the WEB was recorded. In 4/47 patients (8.5%; ruptured, 8%; unruptured, 8.5%), an aneurysm remnant was noted. Adequate occlusion (complete occlusion and neck remnant) was observed in 43/47 aneurysms (91.4%; ruptured, 91.6%; unruptured, 91.4%). Retreatment rate was 6.3% (ruptured, 8%; unruptured, 5.7%). Six (12.7%; ruptured, 25%; unruptured, 8.5%) thromboembolic events were recorded. Hemorrhagic complications occurred in two patients (4.2%; ruptured, 16.6%; unruptured, 0%). Conclusions: WEB enables adequate occlusion of ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms mostly without requirement of long-term antiplatelet therapy. The benefit is seen especially by the wide-necked aneurysms, but indications should be extended to include narrow-necked, smaller, and side-wall aneurysms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]