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Purpose To compare the embolization effects of a non-fibered pushable coil with a conventional fibered pushable coil in an in vitro bench-top experiment. Materials and Methods A simplified vascular phantom with 4 channels (1 for the non-fibered coil, 1 for the fibered coil, and 2 for continuous circuit flow) was used. A single coil of the longest length was inserted to evaluate the effect of single-coil embolization, and 3 consecutive coils were inserted to assess the effect of multiple-coil embolization. Post-embolization angiography was performed to obtain flow variables (time to peak [TTP], relative peak intensity [rPI], and angiographic flow reduction score [AFRS]) from time density curves. The packing densities of the two coil types were calculated, and the AFRS of each channel was determined by dividing the TTP by the rPI. Results When inserting a single coil, the conventional fibered coil demonstrated better flow reduction, as indicated by a higher AFRS (25.6 vs. 17.4, P=0.034). However, the non-fibered coil exhibited a significantly higher packing density (12.9 vs. 2.4, P=0.001). Similar trends were observed with multiple coils. Conclusion The conventional fibered pushable coil showed better flow reduction efficiency, while the non-fibered pushable coil had a higher packing density, likely due to the flexibility of the coil loops. A better understanding of the distinct characteristics of different pushable coils can enhance the outcomes of various vascular embolization.

Management of cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula (CSDAVF) continues to present significant challenges, particularly when the inferior petrosal sinus is thrombosed, collapsed, or angiographically invisible. In this study, we introduce facilitated retrograde access via the facial vein, which is employed in the transvenous embolization of CSDAVF with isolated superior ophthalmic venous drainage. We also present illustrative cases and technical points.

Background and Purpose The additive effects of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) before mechanical thrombectomy (MT) remain unclear. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of IVT prior to MT depending on the location of M1 occlusion. Methods We reviewed the cases of patients who underwent MT for emergent large-vessel occlusion of the M1 segment. Baseline characteristics as well as clinical and periprocedural variables were compared according to the location of M1 occlusion (i.e., proximal and distal M1 occlusion). The main outcome was the achievement of functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score, 0–2) at 3 months after stroke. The main outcomes were compared between the proximal and distal groups based on the use of IVT before MT. Results Among 271 patients (proximal occlusion, 44.6%; distal occlusion, 55.4%), 33.9% (41/121) with proximal occlusion and 24.7% (37/150) with distal occlusion underwent IVT prior to MT. Large-artery atherosclerosis was more common in patients with proximal M1 occlusion; cardioembolism was more common in those with distal M1 occlusion. In patients with proximal M1 occlusion, there was no association between IVT before MT and functional independence. In contrast, there was a significant association between the use of IVT prior to MT (odds ratio=5.30, 95% confidence interval=1.56–18.05, P=0.007) and functional independence in patients with distal M1 occlusion. Conclusion IVT before MT was associated with improved functional outcomes in patients with M1 occlusion, especially in those with distal M1 occlusion but not in those with proximal M1 occlusion.

Hemangioblastomas (HBMs) are rare vascular tumors commonly located in the posterior fossa of adults. A mid-50s patient presented with sudden unconsciousness. Computed tomography scans revealed acute hemorrhages around the posterior fossa, predominantly in the subarachnoid space. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) revealed an 8-mm round lesion filled with contrast agent, fed by the C1 segmental artery of the left vertebral artery (VA), showing early venous drainage to the spinal cord and brainstem. Emergent embolization was attempted under suspicion of a ruptured dural arteriovenous fistula, resulting in parent artery occlusion due to feeder selection failure. Follow-up DSA after a month depicted a persistent aneurysm via collaterals from both VAs. Consequently, the decision was made to proceed with surgical intervention, leading to the resection of the lesion, confirming its diagnosis as a HBM through histological examination. This case underscores the potential for misdiagnosis when HBMs with an intratumoral shunt mimic vascular shunt lesions.

Background Vascular tortuosity affects the outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy (MT). We classified vertebral artery (VA) tortuosity into 3 types and investigated the effect of VA tortuosity on the outcomes in patients with basilar artery occlusion. Methods We retrospectively included patients who underwent MT for basilar artery occlusion between January 2012 and May 2022. Clinical and procedure‐related factors were obtained. VA tortuosity was classified into 3 types: type I: nontortuous VA; type II: S‐shaped vessel or a VA with a single acute angulation (1 location. The 3‐month modified Rankin scale, procedural outcomes, and post‐MT intracranial hemorrhage were assessed. Results A total of 106 patients with basilar artery occlusion were included. Age, baseline stroke severity, and 3‐month modified Rankin scale score were significantly different according to VA tortuosity (P = 0.003, P = 0.002, and P

Abstract Background Prognosis after vertebrobasilar stenting (VBS) may differ from that after carotid artery stenting (CAS). Here, we directly compared the incidence and predictors of in-stent restenosis and stented-territory infarction after VBS and compared them with those of CAS. Methods We enrolled patients who underwent VBS or CAS. Clinical variables and procedure-related factors were obtained. During the 3 years of follow-up, in-stent restenosis and infarction were investigated in each group. In-stent restenosis was defined as reduction in the lumen diameter > 50% compared with that after stenting. Factors associated with the occurrence of in-stent restenosis and stented-territory infarction in VBS and CAS were compared. Results Among 417 stent insertions (93 VBS and 324 CAS), there was no statistical difference in in-stent restenosis between VBS and CAS (12.9% vs. 6.8%, P = 0.092). However, stented-territory infarction was more frequently observed in VBS than in CAS (22.6% vs. 10.8%; P = 0.006), especially a month after stent insertion. HbA1c level, clopidogrel resistance, and multiple stents in VBS and young age in CAS increased the risk of in-stent restenosis. Diabetes (3.82 [1.24–11.7]) and multiple stents (22.4 [2.4–206.4]) were associated with stented-territory infarction in VBS. However, in-stent restenosis (odds ratio: 15.1, 95% confidence interval: 3.17–72.2) was associated with stented-territory infarction in CAS. Conclusions Stented-territory infarction occurred more frequently in VBS, especially after the periprocedural period. In-stent restenosis was associated with stented-territory infarction after CAS, but not in VBS. The mechanism of stented-territory infarction after VBS may be different from that after CAS.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a new angiographic system (Catheter 3.0 system) using a 5 French (Fr), large-bore angiography catheter, a 0.032-inch stiff guidewire, and a continuous flushing system in diagnostic cerebral angiography. Materials and Methods This retrospective study included 30 consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral cerebral angiography using the Catheter 3.0 system from October 2019 to March 2020. As the control group, we included 30 consecutive patients examined before the Catheter 3.0 system was introduced. Procedural outcomes, including technical success, procedure time, dose metrics, procedure-related complications, and image quality were reviewed and analyzed. Results All transfemoral cerebral angiographies were performed for a diagnosis of unruptured intracranial aneurysms. The Catheter 3.0 system showed a significantly shorter fluoroscopy time (6.2 vs. 9.7 minutes, P=0.008) and lower fluoroscopy dose (387.2 vs. 614.4, P=0.002) compared with the conventional 4-Fr catheter system. The Catheter 3.0 system also showed better results in terms of procedural time (21.0 vs. 22.5 minutes, P=0.072) and technical success rate (98.1% vs. 94.0%, P=0.078), although a statistical significance was not reached. The complication rate and qualitative assessment of the digital subtraction angiography (DSA) image quality were similar between the two groups. Conclusion The Catheter 3.0 system using a 5 Fr catheter with a large inner diameter was convenient, effective, and safe compared with the conventional system in diagnostic cerebrovascular angiography.

The efficacy and safety of endovascular treatment (EVT) for moyamoya disease (MMD) have rarely been investigated. The objective of this study was to summarize the clinical outcomes of EVT for MMD and determine the potential role of EVT in treating symptomatic steno-occlusive lesions in MMD. Reports from January 2000 to December 2021 describing EVT in MMD were collected through a literature search. The search terms included “moyamoya”, “stent”, “angioplasty”, and “endovascular”. Data regarding baseline demographics, previous medical history, treated vessel, periprocedural complications, and angiographical recurrence were retrieved. This review included 10 studies with details of 19 patients undergoing a total of 31 EVT procedures. Twenty-one EVTs were performed as initial treatments for MMD, and 10 were performed as additional treatments for angiographical recurrence. The mean follow-up period of the initial EVTs was 9.0±11.9 months, with angiographical recurrence in 11 (68.8%) cases. The mean follow-up period of additional EVTs was 4.3±3.9 months, and seven (70.0%) EVTs showed restenosis of the re-treated vessel. Across all initial and additional EVTs, there were no differences in characteristics between the recurrence and non-recurrence groups. Overall, two periprocedural complications (9.5%) occurred, one vessel rupture and one massive intracerebral hemorrhage with subarachnoid hemorrhage. EVT plays a limited role in the management of symptomatic intracranial arterial steno-occlusive lesions of MMD. Recent advances in understanding the pathomechanism of MMD may urge neuro-interventionists to find a new endovascular approach with better balloon angioplasty or stenting mechanisms.

Background and purposeTop-of-basilar artery occlusion (TOB) is one of the most devastating strokes despite successful mechanical thrombectomy (MT). We aimed to investigate the impact of initial low cerebellum perfusion delay on the outcomes of TOB treated with MT.MethodsWe included patients who underwent MT for TOB. Clinical and peri-procedural variables were obtained. Perfusion delay in the low cerebellum was defined as (1) time-to-maximum (Tmax) >10 s lesions or (2) relative time-to-peak (rTTP) map >9.5 s with a diameter of ≥6 mm in the low cerebellum. The good functional outcome was defined as the achievement of a modified Rankin Scale score of 0–3 at 3 months after stroke.ResultsAmong the 42 included patients, 24 (57.1%) patients showed perfusion delay in the low cerebellum. The admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was significantly higher in those with perfusion delay [17 (12–24) vs. 8 (6–15), P = 0.002]. Accordingly, the proportion of good functional outcomes was lower in those with perfusion delay than in those without [5 (20.8%) vs. 13 (72.2%), P = 0.003]. From the multivariable analysis, the admission NIHSS score [odds ratio (OR) = 0.86, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) = 0.75–0.98, P = 0.021] and low cerebellum perfusion delay (OR = 0.18, 95% Cis = 0.04–0.86, P = 0.031) were independently associated with the 3-month functional outcomes.ConclusionWe found that initial perfusion delay proximal to TOB in the low cerebellum might be a predictor for poor functional outcomes in TOB treated with MT.

Background and Purpose We investigated the impact of stroke etiology on the endovascular treatment (EVT) procedure and clinical outcome of posterior circulation stroke (PCS) patients with EVT compared to anterior circulation stroke (ACS) patients. Methods We retrospectively analyzed ischemic stroke patients who underwent EVT between January 2012 and December 2020. Enrolled ACS and PCS patients were compared according to etiologies (intracranial arterial steno-occlusion [ICAS-O], artery-to-artery embolic occlusion [AT-O], and cardioembolic occlusion [CA-O]). EVT procedure and favorable clinical outcomes at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale 0–2) were compared between the ACS and PCS groups for each etiology. Results We included 419 patients (ACS, 346; PCS, 73) including 88 ICAS-O (ACS, 67; PCS, 21), 66 AT-O (ACS, 50; PCS, 16), and 265 CA-O (ACS, 229; PCS, 36) patients in the study. The onset-to-recanalization time was longer in the PCS group than in the ACS group (median 628.0 minutes vs. 421.0 minutes, P=0.01). In CA-O patients, the door-to-puncture time was longer, whereas the puncture-to-recanalization time was shorter in the PCS group than in the ACS group. The proportions of successful recanalization and favorable clinical outcomes were similar between the ACS and PCS groups for all three etiologies. Low baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores and absence of intracerebral hemorrhage at follow-up imaging were associated with favorable clinical outcomes in both groups, whereas successful recanalization (odds ratio, 11.74; 95% confidence interval, 2.60 to 52.94; P=0.001) was only associated in the ACS group. Conclusions The proportions of successful recanalization and favorable clinical outcomes were similar among all three etiologies between PCS and ACS patients who underwent EVT. Initial baseline NIHSS score and absence of hemorrhagic transformation were related to favorable outcomes in the PCS and ACS groups, whereas successful recanalization was related to favorable outcomes only in the ACS group.

Purpose Post-treatment visual deficit is a major concern associated with both microsurgical clipping and endovascular coiling for the treatment of ophthalmic artery (OphA) aneurysms of the internal carotid artery. We aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of the 2 modalities. Materials and Methods We retrospectively reviewed and compared the baseline characteristics and postoperative visual and angiographic outcomes of OphA aneurysms treated by clipping or coiling between January 2010 and August 2018 at our hospital. In addition, the balloon occlusion test was performed to evaluate the safety of OphA occlusion. Results This study included 56 aneurysms treated by clipping and 82 aneurysms treated by coiling. Both the immediate and follow-up rates of incomplete aneurysm occlusion were comparable between the 2 groups (21.4% vs. 22.0%; 24.4% vs. 23.6%). The incidence of post-treatment visual deficits was higher in the clipping group than in the coiling group (16.1% vs. 2.4%; P=0.010). We observed total ipsilateral OphA occlusion in 6 patients and near occlusion in 3 patients during endovascular coiling; however, only 1 patient with near OphA occlusion showed a post-treatment visual field defect. Conclusion OphA aneurysms treated by endovascular coiling exhibited an aneurysm occlusion rate similar to that of microsurgical clipping with fewer post-treatment visual deficits. The total occlusion of OphA with adequate collaterals did not cause post-treatment visual deficits.

Some cerebral arterial silicone phantoms have been used in preclinical evaluations. However, typical silicone-based phantoms are limited in their capacity to reproduce real contrast filling dynamics of the human cerebral artery. This study aimed to develop a cerebral arterial silicone phantom to analyze the feasibility of real contrast filling dynamics. The fluid circulation phantom system consisted of a cerebral arterial silicone phantom without or with additional devices, a pump, an injection system, a pressure-monitoring system, a constant-temperature bath, and a venous drainage container. Vascular resistance was reproduced with a plastic cistern only or a plastic cistern filled with a sponge pad. Three phantom groups were constructed as follows: a) the cerebral arterial silicone phantom used as the control group (type A), b) phantom with the incorporated plastic cistern (type B), and c) phantom with the incorporated plastic cistern filled with a sponge pad (type C). The contrast concentration-time curve patterns of the three groups obtained from digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were compared. Consequently, the DSA pattern of the type C phantom was the most similar to that obtained from the control group as the reference data, which showed the broadest full-width-at-half-maximum and the area under the curve values and the highest maximum contrast concentration. In conclusion, we could emulate the arterial contrast filling dynamics of clinical cerebral angiography by applying a small cistern filled with a sponge pad at the drainage side of the phantom.

BackgroundObserver rating scales are necessary to evaluate the risk of suicide because individuals at risk for suicide are often unwilling to seek help on their own. Reliability and validity were evaluated for the newly developed Suicide Screening Questionnaire-Observer Rating (SSQ-OR).MethodsPreliminary items were assessed by 251 experts online and 25 questions were selected. 328 individuals at high-risk and 661 controls from 12 Crisis Response Centers and 5 university counseling centers were recruited to complete SSQ-OR, Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSSI) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). In a 6 months follow-up, we reached out to 176 participants to ask whether they had experienced a suicidal thought, plan, or attempt since the baseline assessment. Cronbach's α, Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman's correlation, factor analyses, Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to verify the SSQ-OR.ResultsStructural validity was supported by a two-factor solution using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Excellent model fit indices for the two-factor structure using exploratory factor analysis were confirmed (RMSEA = 0.033, TLI = 0.980, CFI = 0.983). The SSQ-OR demonstrated strong internal consistency. The concurrent validity based on the correlations with other self-reported indicators of suicidal potential–BSSI and PHQ-9– revealed substantial relationships. The high-risk group was effectively characterized by a cut-off point of 4, with a sensitivity of 0.73 and a specificity of 0.79. The SSQ-OR scores were significant predictors of suicidal thoughts and behaviors within 6 months.ConclusionsThe SSQ-OR exhibits sound psychometric properties, and could be used as a complement to a self-report or clinical-administered scale to screen suicide risk comprehensively.

Purpose Microcatheter navigation into an aneurysm sac can present difficulties through negative interactions between the deployed stent mesh and microcatheter. We hypothesized that endothelialization of the stent mesh would minimize these interactions. We aimed to assess the feasibility of staged coiling after stenting by reviewing our experiences with unavoidably staged embolization cases. Materials and Methods Between 2011 and 2019, 7 patients (mean age 57.2 years, range 49–76 years) including 5 females, experienced 9 unruptured aneurysms treated with staged stenting and coiling due to unstable microcatheter navigation into the aneurysm after stent placement. The aneurysms were in the paraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) (n=3), ophthalmic origin ICA (n=1), superior cerebellar artery origin (n=2), basilar tip (n=2), and the middle cerebral artery bifurcation (n=1). The stents used were the Neuroform Atlas (n=4), Neuroform EZ (n=2), and Low-profile Visualized Intraluminal Support Blue (n=1). Results The mean interval between stenting and coiling was 15 weeks (range, 12–21 weeks). The average navigation time between the first roadmap imaging and microcatheter insertion in the sac was 14 minutes (range, 8–20 minutes). One aneurysm was occluded without further coiling on follow-up. Staged coiling successfully treated the remaining aneurysms (n=8). No complications were identified. Conclusion In cases of difficult intra-saccular catheterization, intentional staged coiling may be a feasible option for stent-assisted coiling of the cerebral aneurysms.

Abstract. This single-center, retrospective study aimed to describe the anatomic and clinical characteristics of extracranial carotid artery aneurysms (ECAAs) and to compare various ECAA management strategies in terms of outcomes. A total of 41 consecutive patients, who underwent treatment for ECAAs between November 1996 and May 2020, were included in this study. The ECAAs were anatomically categorized using the Attigah and Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) classifications. The possible study outcomes were restenosis or occlusion of the ipsilateral carotid artery after treatment and treatment-associated morbidity or mortality. The 41 patients were stratified into three groups according to the management strategies employed: surgical (n = 25, 61.0%), endovascular (n = 10, 24.4%), and conservative treatment (n = 6, 14.6%). A palpable, pulsatile mass was the most common clinical manifestation (n = 16, 39.0%), and degenerative aneurysms (n = 29, 65.9%) represented the most common pathogenetic or etiological mechanism. According to the Attigah classification, type I ECAAs (n = 24, 58.5%) were the most common. Using the PUMCH classification, type I ECAAs (n = 26, 63.4%) were the most common. There was a higher prevalence of Attigah type I ECAAs among patients who underwent surgical treatment compared with those who underwent endovascular treatment (64.0% vs 40.0%, P = .09), whereas patients with PUMCH type IIa aneurysms were more likely to receive endovascular treatment (12.0% vs 30.0%). False aneurysms were more likely to be treated using endovascular techniques (20% vs 70%, P = 0.02). Except for two early internal carotid artery occlusions (one each among patients who underwent surgical and endovascular treatments, respectively), there were no early or late restenoses or occlusions during follow-up. Cranial nerve injuries were noted in three patients after surgical treatment, and late ipsilateral strokes occurred in two patients (one each among patients who underwent endovascular and conservative treatment, respectively). There were no other treatment-associated complications or deaths during the study period. Conclusions:. Both surgical and endovascular treatments could be performed safely for ECAAs with good long-term results according to anatomic location and morphology.

Purpose We applied a low-dose fluoroscopic protocol in routine diagnostic cerebral angiography and evaluated the feasibility of the protocol. Materials and Methods We retrospectively reviewed a total of 60 patients who underwent diagnostic cerebral angiography for various neurovascular diseases from September to November 2019. Routine protocols were used for patients in the first phase and low-dose protocols in the second phase. We compared radiation dose, fluoroscopy time, and complications between groups. Results Age, diseases, and operators were not significantly different between the two groups. The mean fluoroscopy dose significantly decreased by 52% in the low-dose group (3.09 vs. 6.38 Gy·cm2); however, the total dose was not significantly different between the two groups (34.07 vs. 33.70 Gy·cm2). The total fluoroscopic time was slightly longer in the low-dose group, but the difference was not statistically significant (12.2. vs. 12.5 minutes). In all patients, angiography was successfully performed without complications. Conclusion The low-dose fluoroscopy protocol is feasible to apply for diagnostic cerebral angiography in that this protocol could significantly reduce the fluoroscopic dose.

Background and Purpose The outcome of endovascular treatment (EVT) may differ depending on the etiology of arterial occlusion. This study aimed to assess the differences in EVT outcomes in patients with intracranial arterial steno-occlusion (ICAS-O), artery-to-artery embolism (AT-O), and cardiac embolism (CA-O). Methods We retrospectively analyzed 330 patients with ischemic stroke who underwent EVT between January 2012 and August 2017. Patients were classified according to the etiology. The clinical data, EVT-related factors, and clinical outcomes were compared. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months, determined using ordinal logistic regression (shift analysis), was the primary outcome. Results CA-O (n=149) was the most common etiology, followed by ICAS-O (n=63) and AT-O (n=49). Age, initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, and rate of hemorrhagic transformation were significantly higher in patients with CA-O compared to AT-O and ICAS-O. The time from onset-to-recanalization was the shortest in the CA-O (356.0 minutes) groups, followed by the AT-O (847.0 minutes) and ICAS-O (944.0 minutes) groups. The rates of successful recanalization, mRS distribution, and favorable outcomes at 3 months (mRS 0–2; CA-O, 36.9%, AT-O, 53.1%; and ICAS-O, 41.3%) did not differ among the three groups. Baseline NIHSS score (odds ratio, 0.87; 95% confidence interval, 0.83 to 0.91) could independently predict a favorable shift in mRS distribution. Conclusions The functional outcomes of ICAS-O and AT-O were similar to those of CA-O, despite the delay in symptom onset-to-recanalization, suggesting that the therapeutic time window may be extended in these patients.

Purpose We present ultrasound-guided percutaneous low-dose thrombin (200–250 IU) injection for the treatment of iatrogenic femoral pseudoaneurysms. Second, we compared patient and procedure factors between subcutaneous hematoma and pseudoaneurysm groups.Materials and Methods From April 2012 to May 2018, 8,425 patients underwent neurointervention. Among these patients, 18 had small subcutaneous hematomas and 6 had pseudoaneurysms. Pseudoaneurysms in the neck and entire sac were visualized, and low-dose thrombins were injected while visualizing a “whirlpool” hyperechoic core in the pseudoaneurysm sac. Subcutaneous hematomas were treated with simple compression. We compared the following parameters between the subcutaneous hematoma group and pseudoaneurysm group: sex, age, body mass index (BMI), type of procedure, heparin usage, sheath size, procedure time, and number of previous neurointervention procedures with the Mann-Whitney U test. Results Most of the pseudoaneurysms were successfully occluded with 200 IU of thrombin (n=5). Only 1 pseudoaneurysm required a slightly higher thrombin concentration (250 IU, n=1). During the short-term follow-up, no residual sac was observed and no surgical repair was necessary. Pain in the groin region was alleviated. During the 1-month follow-up, no evidence of pseudoaneurysm recurrence nor subcutaneous hematoma was noted. Patient factors (sex, age, and BMI) and procedure factors (heparin usage, sheath size, procedure time, number of previous procedures) were not statistically different between the subcutaneous hematoma and pseudoaneurysm groups. Conclusion Ultrasound-guided percutaneous low-dose thrombin injection (200–250 IU) is safe, effective, and less invasive for treating iatrogenic femoral pseudoaneurysm in neurointervention.

Background and PurposeWe describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes (including the long-term patency of endovascular treatment [EVT]) of patients with acute ischemic strokes (AISs) featuring carotid artery dissection (CAD) but not intracranial large vessel occlusion.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent EVT for spontaneous or post-traumatic AISs with CAD over a 13 year period from September 2005 to November 2018. The indications for EVT in patients with AIS-related CAD were a pretreatment diffusion-weighted imaging-Alberta Stroke Program early computed tomography (ASPECT) score > 6 and, clinical-diffusion mismatch. But, if the patients showed fluctuated ischemic symptoms, the joint decision by a stroke neurologist and neurointerventionist was done according to the onset-to-door time, symptoms, patient data, and the initial neuroimaging findings whether indicated that EVT was appropriate.ResultsTwenty-two dissected carotid arteries underwent balloon angioplasty and/or stent placement. The patients were 6 women and 16 men of median age 46 years. Twelve lacked any trauma history. Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator was prescribed for two (9.1%) patients. Four developed symptomatic intracranial hemorrhages (18.2%) but 86.4% exhibited modified Rankin scores ≤ 2.ConclusionsAlthough attention to the hemorrhagic complication is required, EVT for selective patients with cerebral ischemia associated with CAD may be safe and acceptable treatment strategy for reconstruction of luminal patency, with good clinical outcomes. Prospective large-scale randomized studies are required to optimize EVT for CAD patients.

Purpose Complete removal of air bubbles from balloons for neurovascular angioplasty is cumbersome. We compared the preparation difficulty, air removal efficiency, and air collection pattern of six different balloon catheter preparation methods to propose a better preparation method for both initial and second balloon uses, especially for small-profile angioplasty balloon catheters.Materials and Methods A total of 18 neurovascular angioplasty balloon catheters with nominal diameters of 2 mm were prepared to test six different preparation methods: the instruction for use method (method A), simplified method using a syringe (method B) and four newly devised preparation methods using inflating devices (methods C–F). Serial radiographs were obtained while the balloons were gradually inflated. We measured the time for each preparation and the bubble number, analyzed their distribution in the balloon, and calculated the contrast filling ratio (contrast filling area/total balloon area) for initial and second ballooning. The whole process was repeated three times. Results The preparation time varied widely (11.5 seconds [method D] to 73.3 seconds [method A]). On initial inflation, the contrast filling ratio at 8 atm was the highest (100%) with methods A and F. On second inflation, the ratio was again highest with method A (99.5%), followed by method F (99.2%). Initial ballooning tended to show a uniform pattern of single bubble in the distal segment of the balloon; in contrast, second ballooning showed varying patterns in which the bubbles were multiple and randomly distributed. Conclusion None of the six methods were able to completely exclude air bubbles from the balloon catheters including the second ballooning; however, the method of repeating aspiration with high-volume inflating device (method F) could be a practical option considering the simplicity and efficiency of preparation.

BackgroundAdvanced imaging methods can enhance the identification of aneurysms of the infundibula, which can reduce unnecessary follow-ups or further work-up, fear, and anxiety in patients.PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the added diagnostic value of three-dimensional proton density-weighted vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging (3D-PD MRI) in identifying aneurysms from index lesions refer to vascular bulging lesions without vessels arising from the apex, observed using volume-rendered TOF-MRA in the circle-of-Willis compared with time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (TOF-MRA).Study typeRetrospective.PopulationA total of 299 patients who underwent 3D-PD MRI, digital subtraction angiography (DSA), and TOF-MRA between January 2012 and December 2016 were retrospectively enrolled in this study.Field strength/sequence3 Tesla, 3D-PD MRI.AssessmentThree neuroradiologists independently evaluated TOF-MRA and 3D-PD MRI combined with TOF-MRA for the determination of intracranial aneurysms in patients with index lesions within the circle of Willis. Final diagnoses were made by another neuroradiologist and neurointerventionist in consensus using DSA as the reference standard. The diagnostic performance and proportions of undetermined lesions on TOF-MRA and 3D-PD MRI with TOF-MRA were assessed based on the final diagnoses.Statistical testsThe sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy for the diagnosis of unruptured intracranial aneurysms were calculated for each imaging modality.ResultsOf 452 lesions identified on volume-rendered TOF-MRA images, 173 (38%) aneurysms and 276 (61%) infundibula were finally diagnosed on DSA. 3D-PD MRI with TOF-MRA showed superior diagnostic performance (p = .001; accuracy, 85.5% versus 95.4%), superior area under the receiver operating characteristic curve over TOF-MRA (p = .001; 0.837 versus 0.947), and a lower proportion of undetermined lesions than TOF-MRA (p = .001; 25.1% versus 2.3%).Data conclusionFor unruptured intracranial aneurysms in the circle of Willis, 3D-PD MRI can complement TOF-MRA to improve diagnostic performance and lower the proportion of undetermined lesions.

Purpose Wide-neck aneurysms (WNAs) associated with a dilated parent artery (PA) are not uncommon morphological abnormalities and usually cause inappropriate wall apposition and incomplete neck coverage of a tubular stent in stent-assisted coiling of aneurysms. We aimed to introduce a fusiform-shaped stent (FSS) and test its effectiveness in treating intracranial WNAs associated with a dilated PA using a three-dimensional (3D) model. Materials and Methods Two FSS types were designed with the middle one-third segment dilated by 10% (FSS10) and 20% (FSS20) and were compared with the tubular-shaped stent (TSS). A patient-specific 3D WNA model was prototyped and produced, and in vitro stent placement was performed. Angiographic images of the three stent types were analyzed and compared using predetermined parameters. Results The stent lumens were significantly larger in FSS10 and FSS20 than in TSS in the middle segments (P=0.046), particularly FSS20 (P=0.018). The non-covered area at the ostium tended to be smaller in FSS10 and FSS20 than in TSS, but the difference was not significant (P>0.05). The stent length was significantly longer in FSS10 and FSS20 than in TSS. The stent cell size was significantly larger in FSS than in TSS. Conclusion Better vessel wall apposition and aneurysmal neck coverage was observed for FSS than for TSS. No significant difference was observed between FSS10 and FSS20.

Since the first use of the Guglielmi detachable coil system for cerebral aneurysm embolization in 1990, various endovascular methods have been developed to treat large numbers of aneurysms. The main strategic and technical modifications introduced to date include balloon-assisted coil embolization, stent-assisted coil embolization, flow diverters, and flow disrupters. The development and introduction of such devices have been so persistent and rapid that new devices are being approved worldwide even before the earlier ones become available in some countries. However, even if some patient populations may possibly benefit from earlier introduction of new devices, the approval authorities should balance the available evidence of the safety and effectiveness of novel devices. This review aims to provide an overview of the recent innovations in endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms and a brief review of market access policies and regulations for importing high-risk medical devices, such as those used for endovascular aneurysm management, which correspond to class III devices, as defined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. We focus on the current situation in Korea and compare it with that in other Asian countries, such as China and Japan.

PurposeTo determine the minimum required guiding catheter length for embolization of various intracranial aneurysms in anterior circulation and to analyze the effect of various patient factors on the required catheter length and potential interaction with its stability.Materials and MethodsFrom December 2016 to March 2017, 90 patients with 93 anterior circulation aneurysms were enrolled. Three types of guiding catheters (Envoy, Envoy DA, and Envoy DA XB; Codman Neurovascular, Raynham, MA, USA) were used. We measured the in-the-body length of the catheter and checked the catheter tip location in the carotid artery. We analyzed factors affecting the in-the-body length and stability of the guiding catheter system.ResultsThe average (±standard deviation) in-the-body length of the catheter was 84.2±5.9 cm. The length was significantly longer in men (89.1±5.6 vs. 82.1±4.6 cm, P

Background and Purpose Decreasing the time delay for thrombolysis, including intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) with tissue plasminogen activator and intra-arterial thrombectomy (IAT), is critical for decreasing the morbidity and mortality of patients experiencing acute stroke. We aimed to decrease the in-hospital delay for both IVT and IAT through a multidisciplinary approach that is feasible 24 h/day. Methods We implemented the Stroke Alert Team (SAT) on May 2, 2016, which introduced hospital-initiated ambulance prenotification and reorganized in-hospital processes. We compared the patient characteristics, time for each step of the evaluation and thrombolysis, thrombolysis rate, and post-thrombolysis intracranial hemorrhage from January 2014 to August 2016. Results A total of 245 patients received thrombolysis (198 before SAT; 47 after SAT). The median door-to-CT, door-to-MRI, and door-to-laboratory times decreased to 13 min, 37.5 min, and 8 min, respectively, after SAT implementation (P

PurposeOnyx has been successfully applied in the treatment of various neurovascular lesions. However, some experience is required to get accustomed to its unpredictable fluoroscopic visibility during injection. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of radiopacity change in a simulated embolization procedure.Materials and MethodsUsing a bench-top Onyx injection experiment simulating a typical brain arteriovenous malformation embolization, nine cycles of casting modes (continuous injection) and plugging modes (injection with intermittent pauses) were performed. Radiodensity of Onyx droplets collected from the microcatheter tip and the distal head portion of the microcatheter were measured as time lapsed. Distribution of droplet radiodensity (radiodensity) and distribution of radiographic grade (grade) were analyzed and compared by repeated measurements.ResultsWithin-group analysis revealed no significant radiodensity change with time (P>0.05). The radiodensity was significantly higher in the casting mode than in the plugging mode (P

PurposeTo better understand the performance of four commercially available neurovascular stents in intracranial aneurysm embolization, the stents were compared in terms of their basic morphological and mechanical properties.Materials and MethodsFour different types of stents that are currently being used for cerebral aneurysm embolization were prepared (two stents per type). Two were laser-cut stents (Neuroform and Enterprise) and two were braided from a single nitinol wire (LEO and LVIS stents). All were subjected to quantitative measurements of stent size, pore density, metal coverage, the force needed to load, push, and deploy the stent, radial force on deployment, surface roughness, and corrosion resistance.ResultsCompared to their nominal diameters, all stents had greater diameters after deployment. The length generally decreased after deployment. This was particularly marked in the braided stents. The braided stents also had higher pore densities than the laser-cut stents. Metal coverage was highest in the LEO stent (14%) and lowest in the Enterprise stent (5%). The LIVS stent had the highest microcatheter loading force (81.5 gf). The LEO stent had the highest passage force (55.0 gf) and deployment force (78.9 gf). The LVIS and LEO stents had the highest perpendicular (37.1 gf) and circumferential (178.4 gf) radial forces, respectively. The Enterprise stent had the roughest stent wire, followed by the LVIS, LEO, and Neuroform stents.ConclusionThe four neurovascular stent types differed in terms of morphological and physical characteristics. An understanding of this diversity may help to decide which stent is most suitable for specific clinical situations.

Background and Purpose Hemicraniectomy is a decompressive surgery used to remove a large bone flap to allow edematous brain tissue to bulge extracranially. However, early indicators of the decompressive effects of hemicraniectomy are unclear. We investigated whether reduction of midline shift following hemicraniectomy is associated with improved consciousness and survival in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarctions. Methods We studied 70 patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarctions (MMI) who underwent hemicraniectomies. Midline shift was measured preoperatively and postoperatively using computed tomography (CT). Consciousness level was evaluated using the Glasgow Coma Scale on postoperative day 1. Patient survival was assessed six months after stroke onset. Results The median time interval between preoperative and postoperative CT was 8.3 hours (interquartile range, 6.1–10.2 hours). Reduction in midline shift was associated with higher postoperative Glasgow Coma Scale scores (P

PurposeTo assess patient radiation doses during cerebral angiography and embolization of intracranial aneurysms across multi-centers and propose a diagnostic reference level (DRL).Materials and MethodsWe studied a sample of 490 diagnostic and 371 therapeutic procedures for intracranial aneurysms, which were performed at 23 hospitals in Korea in 2015. Parameters including dose-area product (DAP), cumulative air kerma (CAK), fluoroscopic time and total angiographic image frames were obtained and analyzed.ResultsTotal mean DAP, CAK, fluoroscopy time, and total angiographic image frames were 106.2 ± 66.4 Gy-cm2, 697.1 ± 473.7 mGy, 9.7 ± 6.5 minutes, 241.5 ± 116.6 frames for diagnostic procedures, 218.8 ± 164.3 Gy-cm2, 3365.7 ± 2205.8 mGy, 51.5 ± 31.1 minutes, 443.5 ± 270.7 frames for therapeutic procedures, respectively. For diagnostic procedure, the third quartiles for DRLs were 144.2 Gy-cm2 for DAP, 921.1 mGy for CAK, 12.2 minutes for fluoroscopy times and 286.5 for number of image frames, respectively. For therapeutic procedures, the third quartiles for DRLs were 271.0 Gy-cm2 for DAP, 4471.3 mGy for CAK, 64.7 minutes for fluoroscopy times and 567.3 for number of image frames, respectively. On average, rotational angiography was used 1.5 ± 0.7 times/session (range, 0-4; n=490) for diagnostic procedures and 1.6 ± 1.2 times/session (range, 0-4; n=368) for therapeutic procedures, respectively.ConclusionRadiation dose as measured by DAP, fluoroscopy time and image frames were lower in our patients compared to another study regarding cerebral angiography, and DAP was lower with fewer angiographic image frames for therapeutic procedures. Proposed DRLs can be used for quality assurance and patient safety in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

PurposeIn the endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms, navigating a large-bore microcatheter for delivery of an open-cell stent can be challenging, especially in wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms. We were able to overcome this difficulty by parallel use of two microguidewires through the stent-delivery microcatheter.Materials and MethodsFrom December 2014 to April 2015, we treated 15 patients with wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms. For stent delivery, we used a 300-cm 0.014-in microguidewire (Transend), which was placed into the target branch using an exchange technique. A 0.027-in microcatheter (Excelsior XT-27), which was designed for the stent, was advanced over the exchange microguidewire. If we had trouble in advancing the microcatheter over the exchange microguidewire, we inserted a regular microguidewire (Traxcess), into the microcatheter lumen in a parallel fashion. We also analyzed the mechanism underlying microcatheter positioning failure and the success rate of the 'parallel-wire technique'.ResultsAmong the 15 cases, we faced with navigation difficulty in five patients. In those five cases, we could advance the microcatheter successfully by applying the parallel-wire technique. There were no procedure-related complications.ConclusionSimply by using another microguidewire together with pre-existing microguidewire in a parallel fashion, the stent-delivery microcatheter can be easily navigated into the target location in case of any advancement difficulty.

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to assess the safety and early outcomes of the Pipeline device for large/giant or fusiform aneurysms.Materials and MethodsThe Pipeline was implanted in a total of 45 patients (mean age, 58 years; M:F=10:35) with 47 large/giant or fusiform aneurysms. We retrospectively evaluated the characteristics of the treated aneurysms, the periprocedural events, morbidity and mortality, and the early outcomes after Pipeline implantation.ResultsThe aneurysms were located in the internal carotid artery (ICA) cavernous segment (n=25), ICA intradural segment (n=11), vertebrobasilar trunk (n=8), and middle cerebral artery (n=3). Procedure-related events occurred in 18 cases, consisting of incomplete expansion (n=8), shortening-migration (n=5), transient occlusion of a jailed branch (n=3), and in-stent thrombosis (n=2). Treatment-related morbidity occurred in two patients, but without mortality. Both patients had modified Rankin scale (mRS) scores of 2, but had an improved mRS score of 0 at 1-month follow-up. Of the 19 patients presenting with mass effect, 16 improved but three showed no changes in their presenting symptoms. All patients had excellent outcomes (mRS, 0 or 1) during the follow-up period (median, 6 months; range, 2-30 months). Vascular imaging follow-up (n=31, 65.9%; median, 3 months, range, 1-25 months) showed complete or near occlusion of the aneurysm in 24 patients (77.4%) and decreased sac size in seven patients (22.6%).ConclusionIn this initial multicenter study in Korea, the Pipeline seemed to be safe and effective for large/giant or fusiform aneurysms. However, a learning period may be required to alleviate device-related events.

PurposeDay-care management of unruptured intracranial aneurysms can shorten hospital stay, reduce medical cost and improve outcome. We present the process, outcome and duration of hospital stay for the management of unruptured intracranial aneurysms via a neurointervention clinic in a single center during the past four years.Materials and MethodsWe analyzed 403 patients who were referred to Neurointervention Clinic at Asan Medical Center for aneurysm evaluation between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2014. There were 141 (41%) diagnostic catheter angiographies, 202 (59%) neurointerventional procedures and 2 (0.6%) neurointerventional procedures followed by operation. We analyzed the process, outcome of angiography or neurointervention, and duration of hospital stay.ResultsThere was no aneurysm in 58 patients who were reported as having an aneurysm in MRA or CTA (14 %). Among 345 patients with aneurysm, there were 283 patients with a single aneurysm (82%) and 62 patients with multiple aneurysms (n=62, 18%). Aneurysm coiling was performed in 202 patients (59%), surgical clipping in 14 patients (4%), coiling followed by clipping in 2 patients (0.6%) and no intervention was required in 127 patients (37%). The hospital stay for diagnostic angiography was less than 6 hours and the mean duration of hospital stay was 2.1 days for neurointervention. There were 4 procedure-related adverse events (2%) including 3 minor and 1 major ischemic strokes.ConclusionOur study revealed that day-care management of unruptured intracranial aneurysms could be performed without an additional risk. It could enable rapid patient flow, shorten hospital stay and thus reduce hospital costs.

PURPOSE:To evaluate an EW-7197-eluting nanofiber-covered stent (NFCS) for suppressing granulation tissue formation after stent placement in a canine urethral model. MATERIALS AND METHODS:All experiments were approved by the committee of animal research. A total of 12 NFCSs were placed in the proximal and distal urethras of six dogs. Dogs were divided into two groups with 3 dogs each. The control stent (CS) group received NFCSs and the drug stent (DS) group received EW-7197 (1000 μg)-eluting NFCSs. All dogs were sacrificed 8 weeks after stent placement Histologic findings of the stented urethra were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS:Stent placement was technically successful in all dogs without procedure-related complications. On urethrographic analysis, the mean luminal diameter was significantly larger in the DS group than in the CS group at 4 and 8 weeks after stent placement (all p < 0.001). On histological examination, mean thicknesses of the papillary projection, thickness of submucosal fibrosis, number of epithelial layers, and degree of collagen deposition were significantly lower in the DS group than in the CS group (all p < 0.001), whereas the mean degree of inflammatory cell infiltration was not significantly different (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION:The EW-7197-eluting NFCS is effective and safe for suppressing granulation tissue formation after stent placement in a canine urethral model.

PurposeHypothesizing that the parent artery (PA) diameter of the aneurysm-neck segment is larger than those of normal segments, especially in wide-necked aneurysm cases, we conducted 3D angiographic analyses in wide-necked aneurysm cases focusing on the luminal morphologic change of the PA.Materials and MethodsUnder the approval of local IRB, we enrolled 26 patients with distal internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms, which were treated with stent assisted coiling. The PA diameters along the centerline were measured at 6 points with built-in software by two observers. Those 6 points were P1 and P2 proximally, P3 and P4 at the aneurysm ostium margins, and P5 and P6 distally. We performed an ANOVA test and a Bonferroni method for post hoc analyses. Linear regression analysis was performed to find any morphologic influencing factors.ResultsThere were 20 distal ICA aneurysms out of 26 consecutive cases after exclusion. The differences in diameter at each point were statistically significant (p

PurposeDiffusion-weighted MR images (DWI) obtained after endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms frequently show multiple high-signal intensity (HSI) dots. The purpose of this study was to see whether we could reduce their incidence after embolization of unruptured cerebral aneurysms by modification of our coiling technique, which involves the deliberate aspiration of the microcatheter lumen right after delivery of each detachable coil into the aneurysm sac.Materials and MethodsFrom January 2011 to June 2011, all 71 patients with unruptured cerebral aneurysms were treated using various endovascular methods. During the earlier period, 37 patients were treated using our conventional embolization technique (conventional period). Then 34 patients were treated with a modified coiling technique (modified period). DWI was obtained on the following day. We compared the occurrence of any DWI HSI lesions and the presence of the symptomatic lesions during the two time periods.ResultsThe incidence of the DWI HSI lesions differed significantly at 89.2% (33/37) during the conventional period and 26.5% (9/34) during the modified period (p < 0.0001). The incidence of symptomatic lesions differed between the two periods (29.7% during the conventional period vs. 2.9% during the modified period, p < 0.003).ConclusionAspiration of the inner content of the microcatheter right after detachable coil delivery was helpful for the reduction of the incidence of microembolisms after endovascular coil embolization for the treatment of unruptured cerebral aneurysms.

Background and Purpose Long-segmental thrombotic occlusion of the distal internal carotid artery (ICA) sparing the cervical segment proximally and the supraclinoid segment distally, which could be termed ’Carotid S occlusion’, has an unusual clinical presentation. However, endovascular management of this lesion is challenging. The purpose of our study is to report our endovascular treatment clinical experience of the disease. Methods From March 2008 to June 2013, we could identify 14 patients (average age: 62.1, median age: 62, range: 50-79) with ‘Carotid S occlusion’, who underwent endovascular recanalization procedures. Patient’s clinical presentations were collected and the imaging findings also analyzed. The technical success rate, 24-hour and follow-up imaging outcome, and the clinical outcome using the 90-day mRS (modified Rankin scale) score were evaluated. Results Patients presented with gradually progressing (n = 8), fluctuating (n = 3), transient ischemic attack (n = 2) and stationary (n = 1) symptoms. DWI showed internal and external border-zone lesions in six patients, only internal ICA border-zone lesions in three patients, and only external border-zone lesions in two patients. Underlying distal ICA stenosis was noted in 12 patients. The technical success rate was 92.8% (13/14). Luminal patency was noted in all patients (100%) after 24 hours and in nine of 10 (90%) on long-term follow-up (median: 6.5, average: 15.1, range: 1-39 months). A 90-day, good functional outcome (mRS ≤ 2) was noted in 13 of 14 patients (92.8%). Conclusions ‘Carotid S occlusion’ usually presented with border-zone infarction and endovascular management of the lesions was feasible. A relatively successful clinical outcome could be achieved after successful revascularization.

PurposeThe generally preferred vascular access for neurointerventional procedures is the transfemoral approach (TFA). In complicated cases such as patients with aortic diseases or tortuous vessels, transradial or transbrachial approaches (TRA or TBA) could be good alternatives. The purpose of this study is to review a single medical center experience using the alternative accesses.Materials and MethodsWe reviewed the medical records of 30 TRA and 10 TBA cases among 2,073 cases treated between January 2010 and July 2013. We reviewed and analyzed the frequency of TRA and TBA, the reason the operator had chosen the TRA or TBA, the category of the procedure, caliber of the sheath, the success rate, and the complications rates.ResultsThe most common reason the non-TFA route was chosen was due to the patient's tortuous vascular system (n=24, 60%). The most common category of intervention was balloon angioplasty and/or stent placement (n=18, 45%). The largest caliber of the introducing sheath was 6 Fr in TRA and 7 Fr in TBA. Procedural success was achieved in 37 cases (success rate: 92.5%), and in three cases it failed. Six patients with complications were reported. Among them, four cases of minor complications (10%) occurred. There was no serious complication directly related to the access problem.ConclusionBoth TRA and TBA can be good alternative access routes when TFA is not appropriate in various neurointervential procedures.

Vessel wall imaging can depict the morphologies of atherosclerotic plaques, arterial walls, and surrounding structures in the intracranial and cervical carotid arteries beyond the simple luminal changes that can be observed with traditional luminal evaluation. Differentiating vulnerable from stable plaques and characterizing atherosclerotic plaques are vital parts of the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of stroke and the neurological adverse effects of atherosclerosis. Various techniques for vessel wall imaging have been developed and introduced to differentiate and analyze atherosclerotic plaques in the cervical carotid artery. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI) is the most important and popular vessel wall imaging technique for directly evaluating the vascular wall and intracranial artery disease. Intracranial artery atherosclerosis, dissection, moyamoya disease, vasculitis, and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome can also be diagnosed and differentiated by using HR-MRI. Here, we review the radiologic features of intracranial artery disease and cervical carotid artery atherosclerosis on HR-MRI and various other vessel wall imaging techniques (e.g., ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography-computed tomography).

Background and PurposeThe diagnostic accuracy for unruptured intracranial aneurysms has increased, and incidental asymptomatic aneurysms have come to represent a substantial clinical burden because of their controversial natural history. However, their prevalence may be attributable to variations in evaluation methods and demographics. We therefore describe the prevalence and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) findings of incidental intracranial saccular aneurysms over a 5-year period at a single large-volume center.MethodsMRA images from 18,237 patients obtained between January 2001 and December 2005 were retrieved from the radiology report database. Patients diagnosed with incidental intracranial saccular aneurysms were identified and their MRA data were reviewed. Imaging and clinical follow-up data were evaluated.ResultsDuring the study period, 366 incidental intracranial saccular aneurysms were identified in 330 patients (prevalence, 1.8%; 95% confidence interval, 1.63%-2.01%; 115 men and 215 women; age range, 22-82 years; median age, 63 years). The prevalence was higher in women (215/8,112) than in men (115/10,125; P=0.02). The prevalence increased with age in women (P

Interventional neuroradiology (INR) has been a rapidly expanding and advancing clinical area during the past few decades. As the complexity and diversity of INR procedures increases, the demand for anesthesia also increases. Anesthesia for interventional neuroradiology is a challenge for the anesthesiologist due to the unfamiliar working environment which the anesthesiologist must consider, as well as the unique neuro-interventional components. This review provides an overview of the anesthetic options and specific consideration of the anesthesia requirements for each procedure. We also introduce the anesthetic management for interventional neuroradiology performed in our medical institution.

Acute, distal, basilar artery occlusion is a challenging neurovascular emergency. There have been several reports regarding the successful application of the Solitaire FR device for treating this lesion. However, due to the lack of a suitable, balloon-tipped, guiding catheter for the vertebral artery, during this procedure we frequently experience the occurrence of clot fragmentation and distal migration. There may be some technical solutions to solve this problem. The purpose of this report is to present a technical variation of using the Solitaire FR, and which is referred to as the 'intentional device detachment technique.' As a clot tends to re-embolize during its passage through the tortuous cranio-cervical junction level of the vertebral artery or its passage through the tip of the guiding catheter, due to the lack of proximal flow arrest, we thought that not removing the stent segment of the device which is capturing the clot could avoid this problem. We were able to successfully apply this technique in two cases. We believe that this technique can be a possible technical option for using the Solitaire FR device when a patient has little concern regarding the subsequent use of antiplatelets.

BackgroundThe preoperative coexisting chronic systemic illness, delay in surgery, gender, and age were considered as risk factors for the complications after hip fracture surgery. The wider range of surgical delay and immobility-related pulmonary morbidity may affect postoperative complications and mortality. This study examined the risk factors for morbidity and mortality following the hip fracture surgery.MethodsThe patient data was collected retrospectively. The consecutive 506 patients with hip fracture surgery, aged 60 years or older, were included. The patients' age, gender, preexisting diseases, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, delay in surgical repair, duration of surgical procedure, and methods of anesthesia were noted. The thirty-day postoperative complications were reviewed, and cardiac complications, pulmonary complications, delirium, and death were recorded. The data was analyzed for postoperative complications and risk factors.ResultsAtelectasis was associated with postoperative pulmonary complications. Male gender and age ≥ 80 years were associated with an increased incidence of postoperative delirium. ASA classification 3 was associated with death. A delay in surgery was not associated with any complications. Preexisting diseases and methods of anesthesia did not affect mortality and postoperative complications.ConclusionsThe results suggest that a delay in surgery did not affect the postoperative complications and morbidity.

PurposeThe use of drug-eluting stent (DES) to treat intracranial stenosis has shown short-term success. However, there are no reports regarding the long-term results of DES. We present the long-term clinical outcome after DES stenting for symptomatic severe intracranial stenosis.Materials and MethodsOur study included a consecutive series of 11 patients who underwent intracranial stenting using DES between March and July, 2006, during the time when bare metal stents were not available at our medical institution. The mean patient age was 59 years. Lesion location was the middle cerebral artery in five patients, the intradural vertebral artery in three, the basilar artery in one, the vertebrobasilar junction in one, and the cavernous internal cerebral artery in one patient. We evaluated the technical success, defined as reduction of residual stenosis ≤30% in the target lesion) as well as the clinical and imaging outcomes as long as 75 months following the procedure. In addition to a cerebral angiogram (n = 2), follow-up study was obtained by CT angiography (n = 6) or intracranial Doppler imaging (n = 2) during a mean time of 55 months after the procedure (range, 24 to 73 months). Three patients refused imaging follow-up and accepted only clinical follow-up. The mean clinical follow-up period was 67 months (range, 47-75 months).ResultsStenting in all patients was technically successful and without periprocedural complications. There was thrombus formation during the procedure in one patient who experienced no further complications. There were no new neurological events during the mean follow-up period of 5.6 years. No patients were found to have restenosis ≥50% at during the mean follow-up period of 55 months. One patient died of a sudden heart attack 59 months following the procedure which was regarded as unrelated to the cerebral lesion.ConclusionOur study demonstrates that DES shows long-term stability and safety, and results in good clinical outcomes with a low rate of restenosis.

PurposeWingspan is the only FDA approved self-expanding stent for intracranial artery and known to have better delivery compared to balloon expandable stent. However, some delivery failure has been reported but incidence and mechanism of the failure have not been completely elucidated. We present the cause and mechanism of Wingspan deployment failure experienced in our Institute.Materials and MethodsWe experienced deployment failure in seven patients (8.8%) out of 80 patients who underwent Wingspan stenting since 2007. Mean age of the patients was 62 (range 47~78) and male to female ratio was 6:1. We evaluated the cause and mechanism why the deployment was not successful and how we could manage it subsequently.ResultsWe categorized failures occurred in seven patients into three categories: delivery failure (n = 3), deployment failure of stent (n = 3), retrieval failure of dual tapered (olive) tip of the inner body through the deployed the stent (n = 1). The technical failure in using Wingspan stent (delivery, deployment and retrieval failures) are related to tortuousness of the proximal (n =4) as well as distal (n =1) cerebral vessels to the stenotic lesion and bulky profile of the olive tip (n =2).ConclusionThe technical failure in using Wingspan stent (delivery, deployment and retrieval failures) are related to tortuousness of the proximal as well as distal cerebral vessels to the stenotic lesion and bulky profile of the olive tip. To avoid device-related complication, complete understanding of the stent design is mandatory before using the stent.

PurposeVerifyNow antiplatelet assays were performed before and after stenting for various cerebral artery stenoses to determine the effect of the procedure itself to the function of dual antiplatelets given.Materials and MethodsA total of 30 consecutive patients underwent cerebral arterial stenting procedure were enrolled. The antiplatelet pretreatment regimen was aspirin (100 mg daily) and clopidogrel (300 mg of loading dose followed by 75mg daily). VerifyNow antiplatelet assay performed before and right after stenting. The two test results were compared in terms of aspirin-reaction unit (ARU), P2Y12 reaction units (PRU), baseline (BASE), and percentage inhibition. We evaluated occurrence of any intra-procedural in-stent thrombosis or immediate thromboembolic complication, and ischemic events in 1-month follow-up.ResultsThe median Pre-ARU was 418 (range, 350-586). For clopidogrel the medians of the pre-BASE, PRU, and percent inhibition were 338 (279-454), 256 (56-325), and 27% (0-57%). The medians of the post-ARU, BASE, PRU, and percent inhibition after stenting were 469 (range, 389-573), 378 (288-453), 274 (81-370), and 26% (0-79%). There was a significant increase of ARU (p=0.045), BASE (p=0.026), and PRU (p=0.018) before and after stenting. One immediate thromboembolic event was observed in poor-response group after stenting. There was no in-stent thrombosis and ischemic event in 1-month follow-up.ConclusionWe observed a significant increase of platelet reactivity to dual antiplatelet therapy right after stenting procedure for various cerebral arterial stenoses.

PurposeCerebral arterial dissections are recognized as a common cause of stroke. However, few studies have reported on the distribution of cerebral arterial dissection and angiographic pattern related to the presenting clinical symptom pattern. We analyzed the distribution of cerebral artery dissection along with angiographic and clinical presenting a pattern as depicted on angiograms.Materials and MethodsFrom January 2000 to January 2007, 133 arterial dissection patients admitted to our institutes were retrospectively reviewed. The characteristic angiographic findings of all cerebral arteries were carefully evaluated on 4-vessel angiograms. The male-female ratio was 77: 56 and the mean age was 51 years. According to the angiographic finding depicting the location of the dissection plane in the arterial wall, we categorized to steno-occlusive, aneurysmal, combined and unclassifiable pattern. In each dissection pattern, we evaluated presenting symptoms and presence of infarction or hemorrhage.ResultsThe most common symptom on presentation was headache (47%), followed by motor weakness of arm or leg (31%), dysarthria/aphasia (19%) and vertigo (16%). The most common angiographic pattern was steno-occlusive (46%), followed by combined (steno-occlusive and aneurismal) (27%) and aneurysmal (22%) patterns. Steno-occlusive pattern was most commonly related to infarction (33/61, 54%) in contrast that aneurysmal pattern was most frequently related to subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) (7/29, 24%). The most frequent abnormality in patients with dissection of the intradural vertebral arteries including posterior cerebral artery (PCA) was SAH (23/70, 33%), followed by infarction. Infarction was the most common abnormality in patients with the extradural and intradural carotid arteries, and the extradural vertebral artery.ConclusionIn contrast that the extradural arterial dissections tended to result in ischemia with steno-occlusive pattern, the intradural arterial dissections tended to result in SAH with aneurysmal type, especially in the vertebral artery. Dissection requires combined analysis of angiographic pattern and type of stroke depending on the location.

Embolization of an aneurysm at the proximal A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) is technically challenging. We treated four consecutive patients with unruptured aneurysms at the proximal portion of the A1 segment of the ACA. We tested various microcatheter tip shapes before we successfully embolized a lesion with a zigzag-shaped microcatheter tip, which was made by steam shaping. The shape of this microcatheter tip resembled the letter "Z", had a relatively long distal straight segment and was helpful in prompt catheterization of the aneurysm sac and stable placement of the catheter and delivery of coils.