A regional strategy to decrease the time to thrombectomy in patients with low probability of treatment by thrombolysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The best transportation strategy for patients with suspected large vessel occlusion (LVO) is unknown. Here, we evaluated a new regional strategy of direct transportation to a Comprehensive Stroke Center (CSC) for patients with suspected LVO and low probability of receiving intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) at the nearest Primary Stroke Center (PSC). METHODS: Patients could be directly transported to the CSC (bypass group) if they met our pre-hospital bypass criteria: high LVO probability (i.e., severe hemiplegia) with low IVT probability (contraindications) and/or travel time difference between CSC and PSC<15 minutes. The other patients were transported to the PSC according to a "drip-and-ship" strategy. Treatment time metrics were compared in patients with pre-hospital bypass criteria and confirmed LVO in the bypass and drip-and-ship groups. RESULTS: In the bypass group (n=79), 54/79 (68.3%) patients met the bypass criteria and 29 (36.7%) had confirmed LVO. The positive predictive value of the hemiplegia criterion for LVO detection was 0.49. In the drip-and-ship group (n=457), 92/457 (20.1%) patients with confirmed LVO met our bypass criteria. Among the 121 patients with bypass criteria and confirmed LVO, direct routing decreased the time between symptom discovery and groin puncture by 55 minutes compared with the drip-and-ship strategy (325 vs. 229 minutes, P<0.001), without significantly increasing the time to IVT (P=0.19). CONCLUSIONS: Our regional strategy led to the correct identification of LVO and a significant decrease of the time to mechanical thrombectomy, without increasing the time to IVT, and could be easily implemented in other territories.

Influence of operator experience on the technical and clinical results of Woven EndoBridge endovascular treatment for intracranial aneurysms.

BACKGROUND & PURPOSE: The safety and efficacy of the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device has been proven in recent multicenter trials. This study investigated whether operator experience influences WEB treatment-related outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected multicenter database. The data of all patients who underwent WEB treatment for an intracranial aneurysm from March 2014 to June 2020 in two high-volume centers were pooled. Operator experience was indexed by the number of WEB treatments performed previously. The primary endpoint was the overall complication rate. Secondary endpoints were long-term adequate (Raymond-Roy classification of 1-2.) angiographic occlusion, WEB-related complications, number of WEB not deployed, procedure duration, and radiation exposure (air kerma). RESULTS: Among 237 patients (mean age 59.4 +/- 11.5 years) treated with WEB (median aneurysm diameter, 5.8 mm; interquartile range 4.5-7 mm), WEB-related complications occurred in 28 patients (11.8%) and adequate long-term occlusion was achieved for 154 aneurysms (86%). The median number of WEB treatment performed previously per operator was 20 (IQR, 9-41). The overall complication rate, WEB-related complication rate and aneurysm occlusion rate were not significantly correlated with WEB operator experience. There were also no significant correlations between the WEB operator experience and the number of WEB not deployed, procedure duration or radiation exposure. CONCLUSION: There was no significant association between the number of WEB treatments previously performed per operator and any technical or clinical results after intracranial aneurysm treatment with WEB. These results imply a relatively short learning curve for this device in high-volume neurovascular centers.

Prevalence of carotid web in a French cohort of cryptogenic stroke.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Carotid webs (CaW) may be an under-recognized cause of anterior circulation cryptogenic ischemic stroke (ACIS). Prevalence is still unknown in European patients with ACIS. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence of CaW in ACIS and describe patients with CaW phenotype in a cohort of patients from a French stroke center. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective monocentric cohort study from 01/01/2015 to 31/12/2019 (Montpellier University Hospital, France), in consecutive anterior ischemic stroke (AIS) patients ≤65 years old from a prospective stroke database. Using ASCOD phenotyping, ACIS patients were selected and cervical CTA were reviewed to find CaW. RESULTS: Among 1053 consecutive AIS patients, 266 ACIS patients with CTA were included. Among patients included (mean age 50, women 58%), CaW was in the ipsilateral carotid (iCaW) in 21 patients: 7.9% (95%CI [4.6-11.1]), (mean age 51, 11 women, 16 Caucasian). iCaW were uncovered during study review of CTA in 6/21 (29%) patients. Comparison between patients with iCaW and those without iCaW showed no differences except that of a higher rate of intracranial large vessel occlusion (LVO) (62.4 vs 37.6%; p = 0.03). Patients with iCaW under conservative medical therapy had an annualized stroke recurrence rate (SRR) of 11.4% (95%CI [8.4-15.1]. CONCLUSIONS: iCaW was identified as a source of stroke in about 8% of a French population ≤65 years with ACIS. iCaW was associated with a higher rate of LVO and a high SRR under conservative medical therapy.

Optimal Duration of MRI Follow-up to Safely Identify Middle Ear Residual Cholesteatoma.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Previous studies have demonstrated the usefulness of non-EPI DWI for detection of residual cholesteatoma. However, limited data are available to determine the suitable duration of imaging follow-up after a first MR imaging with normal findings has been obtained. The present study aimed to determine the optimal duration of non-EPI DWI follow-up for residual cholesteatoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective, monocentric study was performed between 2013 and 2019 and included all participants followed up after canal wall up tympanoplasty with at least 2 non-EPI DWI examinations performed on the same 1.5T MR imaging scanner. MR images were reviewed independently by 2 radiologists. Sensitivity and specificity values were calculated as a function of time after the operation. Receiver operating characteristic curves were analyzed to determine the optimal follow-up duration. RESULTS: We analyzed 47 MRIs from 17 participants. At the end of the individual follow-up period, a residual cholesteatoma had been found in 41.1% of cases. The follow-up duration ranged from 20 to 198 months (mean, 65.9 [SD, 43.9] months). Participants underwent between 2 and 5 non-EPI DWI examinations. Analyses of the receiver operating characteristic curves revealed that the optimal diagnostic value of non-EPI DWI occurred 56 months after the operation when the first MR imaging performed a mean of 17.3 (SD, 6.8) months after the operation had normal findings (sensitivity = 0.71; specificity = 0.7, Youden index = 0.43). CONCLUSIONS: Repeat non-EPI DWI is required to detect slow-growing middle ear residual cholesteatomas. We, therefore, recommend performing non-EPI DWI for at least the first 5 years after the initial operation.

Flow-Diversion Treatment for Unruptured ICA Bifurcation Aneurysms with Unfavorable Morphology for Coiling.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Few reports described flow diversion for ICA bifurcation aneurysms. Our aim was to provide further insight into flow diversion for ICA bifurcation aneurysms difficult to treat with other strategies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Consecutive patients receiving flow diverters for unruptured ICA bifurcation aneurysms were collected. Aneurysm occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale) and clinical outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: Twenty saccular ICA bifurcation aneurysms were treated with the Pipeline Embolization Device deployed from the M1 to the ICA, covering the aneurysm and the A1 segment. All patients presented with an angiographic visualized contralateral flow from the anterior communicating artery. Mean aneurysm size was 6.5 (SD, 3.2) mm (range, 4.5-20 mm). All lesions had an unfavorable dome-to-neck ratio (mean/median, 1.6/1.6; range, 0.8-2.8; interquartile range = 0.5) or aspect ratio for coiling (mean/median = 1.5/1.55; range, 0.8-2.5; interquartile range = 0.6). One was a very large aneurysm (20 mm). Nineteen medium-sized lesions were completely occluded during the angiographic follow-up (13 months). No cases of aneurysm rupture or retreatment were reported. No adverse events were described. Aneurysm occlusion was associated with the asymptomatic flow modification of the covered A1 that was occluded and contralaterally filled among 10 patients (50%), narrowed among 9 patients (45%), and unchanged in 1 subject (5%). There was no difference in the mean initial diameter of the occluded (2.1 [SD 0.4] mm; range, 1.6-3 mm) and narrowed (2 [SD, 0.2] mm; range, 1.7-2.6 mm) A1 segments. CONCLUSIONS: Medium-sized unruptured ICA bifurcation aneurysms with unfavorable morphology for coiling can be treated with M1 ICA flow diversion. Aneurysm occlusion is associated with flow modifications of the covered A1 that seems safe in the presence of a favorable collateral anatomy through the anterior communicating artery complex.

Will MRI replace the EEG for the diagnosis of nonconvulsive status epilepticus, especially focal?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can now be used to diagnose or to provide confirmation of focal nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE). Approximately half of patients with status epilepticus (SE) have signal changes. MRI can also aid in the differential diagnosis with generalized NCSE when there is a clinical or EEG doubt, e.g. with metabolic/toxic encephalopathies or Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. With the development of stroke centers, MRI is available 24h/24 in most hospitals. MRI has a higher spatial resolution than electroencephalography (EEG). MRI with hyperintense lesions on FLAIR and DWI provides information related to brain activity over a longer period of time than a standard EEG where only controversial patterns like lateralized periodic discharges (LPDs) may be recorded. MRI may help identify the ictal nature of LPDs. The interpretation of EEG tracings is not easy, with numerous pitfalls and artifacts. Continuous video-EEGs require a specialized neurophysiology unit. The learning curve for MRI is better than for EEG. It is now easy to transfer MRI to a platform with expertise. MRI is more accessible than single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or positron emission tomography (PET). For the future, it is more interesting to develop a strategy with MRI than SPECT or PET for the diagnosis of NCSE. With the development of artificial intelligence, MRI has the potential to transform the diagnosis of SE. Additional MRI criteria beyond the classical clinical/EEG criteria of NCSE (rhythmic versus periodic, spatiotemporal evolution of the pattern…) should now be systematically added. However, it is more complicated to move patients to MRI than to perform an EEG in the intensive care unit, and at this time, we do not know how long the signal changes persist after the end of the SE. Studies with MRI at fixed intervals and after SE cessation are necessary.

Predictors of Favorable Outcome after Endovascular Thrombectomy in MRI: Selected Patients with Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Clinical outcomes after endovascular treatment for acute basilar artery occlusions need further investigation. Our aim was to analyze predictors of a 90-day good functional outcome defined as mRS 0-2 after endovascular treatment in MR imaging-selected patients with acute basilar artery occlusions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed consecutive MR imaging-selected patients with acute basilar artery occlusions endovascularly treated within the first 24 hours after symptom onset. Successful and complete reperfusion was defined as modified TICI scores 2b-3 and 3, respectively. Outcome at 90 days was analyzed in univariate and multivariate analysis regarding baseline patient treatment characteristics and periprocedural outcomes. RESULTS: One hundred ten patients were included. In 10 patients, endovascular treatment was aborted for failed proximal/distal access. Overall, successful reperfusion was achieved in 81.8% of cases (n = 90; 95% CI, 73.3%-88.6%). At 90 days, favorable outcome was 31.8%, with a mortality rate of 40.9%; the prevalence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage within 24 hours was 2.7%. The median time from symptom onset to groin puncture was 410 minutes (interquartile range, 280-540 minutes). In multivariable analysis, complete reperfusion (OR = 6.59; 95% CI, 2.17-20.03), lower pretreatment NIHSS (OR = 0.77; 95% CI, 0.64-0.94), the presence of posterior communicating artery collateral flow (OR = 2.87; 95% CI, 1.05-7.84), the absence of atrial fibrillation (OR = 0.18; 95% CI, 0.03-0.99), and intravenous thrombolysis administration (OR = 2.75; 95% CI, 1.04-7.04) were associated with 90-day favorable outcome. CONCLUSIONS: In our series of MR imaging-selected patients with acute basilar artery occlusions, complete reperfusion was the strongest predictor of a good outcome. Lower pretreatment NIHSS, the presence of posterior communicating artery collateral flow, the absence of atrial fibrillation, and intravenous thrombolysis administration were associated with favorable outcome.

Flow-Diversion Treatment for Unruptured Nonsaccular Intracranial Aneurysms of the Posterior and Distal Anterior Circulation: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Treatment management and outcomes of unruptured nonsaccular aneurysms are different compared with their saccular counterparts. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after flow diversion among nonsaccular unruptured lesions. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 data bases (2005-2019) was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. STUDY SELECTION: We included studies reporting flow diversion for nonsaccular unruptured aneurysms of the posterior and distal anterior circulations. Anterior circulation lesions were included if located distal to the petrocavernous and supraclinoid ICA (MCA, A1, anterior communicating artery, A2). Giant dolichoectatic holobasilar lesions were excluded because of their poor treatment outcomes. DATA ANALYSIS: Aneurysm occlusion and complication rates were calculated (random effects meta-analysis). DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 15 studies (213 aneurysms). The long-term adequate occlusion rate was 85.3% (137/168; 95% CI, 78.2%-92.4%; I2 = 42.3%). Treatment-related complications were 17.4% (41/213; 95% CI, 12.45%-22.4%; I2 = 0%). Overall, 15% (37/213; 95% CI, 10%-20%; I2 = 0%) were ischemic events. Procedure-related morbidity was 8% (20/213; 95% CI, 5%-12%; I2 = 0%). Fusiform or dissecting types had comparable adequate occlusion (116/146 = 83%; 95% CI, 74%-92%; I2 = 48% versus 33/36 = 89%; 95% CI, 80%-98%; I2 = 0%; P = .31) and complication rates (35/162 = 17%; 95% CI, 10%-25%; I2 = 24% versus 11/51 = 19%; 95% CI, 10%-31%; I2 = 0%; P = .72). Aneurysm size (>10 versus ≤10 mm) was independently associated with a higher rate of complications (OR = 6.6; 95% CI, 1.3-15; P = .02). The rate of ischemic events after discontinuation of the antiplatelet therapy was 5% (5/93; 95% CI, 2%-9%; I2 = 0%). LIMITATIONS: Small and retrospective studies were available for this meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Unruptured nonsaccular aneurysms located in the posterior and distal anterior circulations can be effectively treated with flow diversion. Nevertheless, treatment-related complications are not negligible, with about 15% ischemic events and 8% morbidity. Larger size (>10 mm) significantly increases the risk of procedure-related adverse events.

Predicting Factors of Angiographic Aneurysm Occlusion after Treatment with the Woven EndoBridge Device: A Single-Center Experience with Midterm Follow-Up.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Flow disruption with the Woven EndoBridge is increasingly used for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. We examined factors leading to aneurysm occlusion and Woven EndoBridge shape change during a midterm follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with a minimum 12-month angiographic follow-up were included. Through a univariate and multivariate analysis, independent predictors of adequate occlusion (Raymond-Roy 1/Raymond-Roy 2) and Woven EndoBridge shape change (decrease of the height of the device) were assessed. RESULTS: Eighty-six patients/aneurysms were included. The aneurysm mean size was 5.5 mm (range, 3-11.5 mm). The most common locations were the MCA (43/86 = 50%), basilar tip (13/86 = 15.1%), and anterior communicating artery (12/86 = 14%). Twenty-one patients (21/86 = 24%) had acute SAH. Immediate and long-term Raymond-Roy 1/Raymond-Roy 2 occlusion rates were 49% (42/86) and 80% (68/86), respectively. Woven EndoBridge shape change was detected among 22% (19/86) of cases. At binary logistic regression, wide ostium (≥4 mm) (OR = 0.2; 95% CI, 0.01-1; P = .04) and regular aneurysm morphology (OR = 5.9; 95% CI, 1.4-24; P = .01) were independent factors of incomplete and adequate aneurysm occlusion, respectively. In addition, irregular morphology (OR = 5.4; 95%CI, 1.4-19; P = .01) and a wide ostium (OR = 9.8; 95% CI, 1.6-60; P = .03) significantly increased the probability of the Woven EndoBridge shape change. Decrease of the Woven EndoBridge height was more common among incompletely occluded aneurysms (6/12 = 50% versus 13/74 = 17.5%), but it was not an independent prognosticator of occlusion at the multivariate model. CONCLUSIONS: The likelihood of good occlusion was 5 times lower in the presence of a wide ostium, whereas aneurysms with regular morphology were 6 times more likely to be occluded. Woven EndoBridge shape modification was strongly influenced by the aneurysm shape and ostium size, and it was not independently associated with the angiographic occlusion.

Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients with Aneurysmal SAH: Impact on Delayed Cerebral Ischemia and Clinical Outcome. A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Delayed cerebral ischemia strongly impacts clinical outcome after aneurysmal SAH. The effect of antiplatelet therapy on delayed cerebral ischemia has been described with heterogeneous results. Our aim was to analyze the efficacy of antiplatelet therapy on delayed cerebral ischemia and clinical outcome in patients with SAH. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 1990 to 2019. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies comparing the rates of delayed cerebral ischemia and clinical outcomes among patients with SAH with and without antiplatelet therapy. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: delayed cerebral ischemia, mortality, and good outcome rates. DATA SYNTHESIS: Including 7 studies, 1060 and 1762 patients with SAH were endovascularly or surgically treated with (cases) and without (controls) antiplatelet therapy, respectively. Overall, antiplatelet therapy did not significantly decrease delayed cerebral ischemia rates compared with the control group (219/1060 versus 485/1762, OR = 0.781; 95% CI, 0.46-1.31; P = .33). Among patients treated endovascularly, there was a trend toward lower delayed cerebral ischemia rates after antiplatelet therapy (157/778 versus 413/1410, OR = 0.552; 95% CI, 0.273-1.115; P = .06). Long-term (>2 weeks) antiplatelet therapy tended to be associated with a lower incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia (63/438 versus 96/353, OR = 0.379; 95% CI, 0.12-1.2; P = .06). The good-outcome rate was significantly higher (803/1144 versus 1175/1775, OR = 1.368; 95% CI, 1.117-1.676; P = .002) and the mortality rate was significantly lower (79/672 versus 97/571, OR = 0.656; 95% CI, 0.47-0.91; P = .01) among the antiplatelet therapy group. LIMITATIONS: Heterogeneity was high for most outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia seems not to be significantly reduced among the antiplatelet therapy group. However, delayed cerebral ischemia tended to be lower among subjects with both long-term antiplatelet therapy and endovascular treatment and antiplatelet administration. Poor outcome and mortality rates were significantly reduced among the antiplatelet therapy group.

Treatment of Wide-Neck Intracranial Aneurysms with the Woven EndoBridge Device Associated with Stenting: A Single-Center Experience.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The intrasaccular flow disruptor, the Woven EndoBridge device, is increasingly used for the treatment of wide-neck intracranial aneurysms. Due to unfavorable anatomy, additional stent placement is sometimes required to avoid Woven EndoBridge protrusion into bifurcation branches. We report our experience with the Woven EndoBridge associated with stent placement for the treatment of complex intracranial aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with aneurysms treated with the Woven EndoBridge Single-Layer plus stent placement were evaluated retrospectively with prospectively maintained data. The technical feasibility, procedural complications, aneurysm occlusion, and clinical outcome were studied. RESULTS: Seventeen patients and aneurysms treated with the Woven EndoBridge plus stent placement were included. The mean aneurysm size was 7 ± 3.1 mm. Aneurysm locations were the following: MCA (10 patients), anterior communicating artery (3 patients), basilar tip (3 patients), and posterior communicating artery (1 patient). Two lesions were ruptured and treated in the acute phase. The Woven EndoBridge and stent placement were successfully delivered in all cases. There were no permanent/major complications. Among the 2 patients with SAH, minor and completely reversible in-stent thrombosis occurred during treatment. An asymptomatic occlusion of the angular artery with a distal nonbifurcation aneurysm was discovered during the angiographic follow-up. Long-term (10.4 months) angiographic complete (Raymond-Roy I) and near-complete (Raymond-Roy II) occlusion was obtained in 11 (69%) and 2 (12.5%) aneurysms, respectively. The mean sizes of aneurysms showing Raymond-Roy I/Raymond-Roy II and Raymond-Roy III occlusion were 5.5 ± 2.1 mm and 10 ± 1 mm, respectively (P = .003). The mean fluoroscopy time was 35 ± 14 minutes. CONCLUSIONS: Aneurysm embolization with the Woven EndoBridge device associated with stent placement appears technically feasible and effective for the treatment of lesions with unfavorable anatomy. In our study, this strategy was relatively safe with a low rate of relevant procedure-related adverse events.

Treatment of Unruptured Distal Anterior Circulation Aneurysms with Flow-Diverter Stents: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of flow diversion among distal anterior circulation aneurysms must be proved. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after flow diversion among MCA, anterior communicating artery, and distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 2005 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting flow diversion of distal anterior circulation aneurysms. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool aneurysm occlusion and complication rates. From the individual patient data, univariate and multivariate analyses were used to test predictors of occlusion and complications. DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 27 studies (484 aneurysms). The long-term adequate occlusion rate (O'Kelly-Marotta scale, C-D) was 82.7% (295/364; 95% CI, 77.4%-87.9%; I2 = 52%). Treatment-related complications were 12.5% (63/410; 95% CI, 9%-16%%; I2 = 18.8%), with 5.4% (29/418; 95% CI, 3.2%-7.5%; I2 = 0%) morbidity. MCA location was an independent factor associated with lower occlusion (OR = 0.5, P = .03) and higher complication rates (OR = 1.8, P = .02), compared with anterior communicating artery and distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. The Pipeline Embolization Device (versus other stents) gave better occlusion rates (OR = 2.6, P = .002), whereas large/giant aneurysms were associated with higher odds of complications (OR = 2.2, P = .03). The rates of occlusion and narrowing of arteries covered by flow-diverter stents were 6.3% (29/283; 95% CI, 3.5%-9.1%; I2 = 4.2%) and 23.8% (69/283; 95% CI, 15.7%-32%; I2 = 80%), respectively. Symptoms related to occlusion and narrowing of the jailed arteries were 3.5% (6/269; 95% CI, 1.1%-5%; I2 = 0%) and 3% (6/245; 95% CI, 1%-4%; I2 = 0%), respectively. LIMITATIONS: We reviewed small and retrospective series. CONCLUSIONS: Flow diversion among distal anterior circulation aneurysms is effective, leading to adequate aneurysm occlusion in 83% of cases. However, this strategy has some limitations among MCA and larger lesions, especially related to the higher rate of complications. Compared with the other devices, the Pipeline Embolization Device seems to be associated with a higher occlusion rate.

Comparison of Prasugrel and Clopidogrel Used as Antiplatelet Medication for Endovascular Treatment of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Clopidogrel is routinely used to decrease ischemic complications during neurointerventional procedures. However, the efficacy may be limited by antiplatelet resistance. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the efficacy of prasugrel compared with clopidogrel in the cerebrovascular field. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 2 large databases was performed for studies published from 2000 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting treatment-related outcomes of patients undergoing neurointerventional procedures under prasugrel, and studies comparing prasugrel and clopidogrel. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the overall rate of complications, ischemic and hemorrhagic events, and influence of the dose of prasugrel. DATA SYNTHESIS: In the 7 included studies, 682 and 672 unruptured intracranial aneurysms were treated under prasugrel (cases) and clopidogrel (controls), respectively. Low-dose (20 mg/5 mg; loading and maintenance doses) prasugrel compared with the standard dose of clopidogrel (300 mg/75 mg) showed a significant reduction in the complication rate (OR = 0.36; 95% CI, 0.17-74, P = .006; I2 = 0%). Overall, the ischemic complication rate was significantly higher in the clopidogrel group (40/672 = 6%; 95% CI, 3%-13%; I2 = 83% versus 16/682 = 2%; 95% CI, 1%-5%; I2 = 73%; P = .03). Low and high loading doses of prasugrel were associated with 0.6% (5/535; 95% CI, 0.1%-1.6%; I2 = 0%) and 9.3% (13/147; 95% CI, 0.2%-18%; I2 = 60%) intraperiprocedural hemorrhages, respectively (P = .001), whereas low and high maintenance doses of prasugrel were associated with 0% (0/433) and 0.9% (2/249; 95% CI, 0.3%-2%; I2 = 0%) delayed hemorrhagic events, respectively (P = .001). LIMITATIONS: Retrospective series and heterogeneous endovascular treatments were limitations. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, low-dose prasugrel compared with clopidogrel premedication was associated with an effective reduction of the ischemic events with an acceptable rate of hemorrhagic complications.

Flow-Diversion Effect of LEO Stents: Aneurysm Occlusion and Flow Remodeling of Covered Side Branches and Perforators.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Flow diversion with intermediate-porosity stents (braided stents) has been recently reported for distally located small aneurysms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the flow-diversion effect of LEO stents on covered vessels and for aneurysms treated with sole stent-placement therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the following outcomes: 1) remodeling of covered side branches and perforators (extra-aneurysmal flow remodeling), and 2) the occlusion rate of aneurysms treated with sole stent-placement therapy (intra-aneurysmal flow remodeling). RESULTS: Seventy-six patients with 98 covered vessels were studied. Overall, 89 covered arteries (91%) were normal, 7 showed narrowing (7%), and 2 (2%) were occluded (1 posterior communicating artery and 1 MCA) without related complications (mean DSA follow-up, 14 months). Univariate and multivariate analyses highlighted smoking (P = .03) and the length of follow-up (P = .002) as factors associated with arterial remodeling. Of the 17 Sylvian (lenticulostriate arteries) and 7 basilar perforators, 1 (4%) group of Sylvian perforators covered with double stents had asymptomatic remodeling. Ten aneurysms (mean size, 3.5 mm) were treated with LEO stents as stent monotherapy (5 recanalized after coiling and 5 directly treated with the LEO). Complete occlusion (Raymond-Roy I) was achieved in 70% of aneurysms (mean follow-up, 14 months). The Raymond-Roy I occlusion rate among recanalized aneurysms and those directly treated with LEO stents was 80% and 60%, respectively (P = .9). CONCLUSIONS: The rate of flow remodeling on the covered arteries and perforators was 9% and 4%, respectively, and was clinically irrelevant in all cases. Complete occlusion of aneurysms treated with sole stent-placement therapy was 70%. These data stress the flow-diversion properties of LEO stents.

Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms with Self-Expandable Braided Stents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of treatment with self-expandable braided stents (LEO and LVIS) required further investigation. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after treatment with braided stents. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 2006 to 2017. STUDY SELECTION: According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting patients treated with LEO or LVIS stents. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: aneurysm occlusion rate, complications, and neurologic outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirty-five studies evaluating 1426 patients treated with braided stents were included in this meta-analysis. Successful stent delivery and complete aneurysm occlusion were 97% (1041/1095; 95% CI, 95%-98%) (I2 = 44%) and 88.3% (1097/1256; 95% CI, 85%-91%) (I2 = 72%), respectively. Overall, treatment-related complications were 7.4% (107/1317; 95% CI, 5%-9%) (I2 = 44%). Ischemic/thromboembolic events (48/1324 = 2.4%; 95% CI, 1.5%-3.4%) (I2 = 27%) and in-stent thrombosis (35/1324 = 1.5%; 95% CI, 0.6%-1.7%) (I2 = 0%) were the most common complications. Treatment-related morbidity was 1.5% (30/1324; 95% CI, 0.9%-2%) and was comparable between the LEO and LVIS groups. Complication rates between the anterior (29/322 = 8.8%; 95% CI, 3.4%-12%) (I2 = 41%) versus posterior circulation (10/84 = 10.5%; 95% CI, 4%-16%) (I2 = 0%) and distal (30/303 = 8%; 95% CI, 4.5%-12%) (I2 = 48%) versus proximal aneurysms (14/153 = 9%; 95% CI, 3%-13%) (I2 = 46%) were comparable (P > .05). LIMITATIONS: Limitations were selection and publication biases. CONCLUSIONS: In this analysis, treatment with the LEO and LVIS stents was relatively safe and effective. The most common complications were periprocedural thromboembolisms and in-stent thrombosis. The rate of complications was comparable among anterior and posterior circulation aneurysms, as well as for proximal and distally located lesions.

Acutely Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms Treated with Flow-Diverter Stents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The implantation of flow-diverter stents for the treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms required further investigation. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after flow diversion of ruptured intracranial aneurysms. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 2006 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies (from 2010 to 2018) reporting acutely ruptured intracranial aneurysms treated with flow diversion. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: aneurysm occlusion rate, complications, rebleeding, and factors influencing the studied outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 20 studies evaluating 223 patients with acutely ruptured intracranial aneurysms treated with flow-diverter stents. Immediate angiographic occlusion was obtained in 32% (29/86; 95% CI, 15.4%-48%; I2 = 79.6%) of aneurysms, whereas long-term complete/near-complete aneurysm occlusion was 88.9% (162/189; 95% CI, 84%-93.5%; I2 = 20.9%) (mean radiologic follow-up of 9.6 months). The treatment-related complication rate was 17.8% (42/223; 95% CI, 11%-24%; I2 = 52.6%). Complications were higher in the posterior circulation (16/72 = 27%; 95% CI, 14%-40%; I2 = 66% versus 18/149 = 11.7%; 95% CI, 7%-16%; I2 = 0%) (P = .004) and after treatment with multiple stents (14/52 = 26%; 95% CI, 14%-45%; I2 = 59%) compared with a single stent (20/141 = 10%; 95% CI, 5%-15%; I2 = 0%) (P = .004). Aneurysm rebleeding after treatment was 4% (5/223; 95% CI, 1.8%-7%; I2 = 0%) and was higher in the first 72 hours. LIMITATIONS: Small and retrospective series. CONCLUSIONS: Flow-diversion treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms yields a high rate of long-term angiographic occlusion with a relatively low rate of aneurysm rebleeding. However, treatment is associated with a complication rate of 18%. When coiling or microsurgical clipping are not feasible strategies, anterior circulation ruptured aneurysms can be effectively treated with a flow-diversion technique, minimizing the number of stents deployed. Given the 27% rate of complications, flow diversion for ruptured posterior circulation aneurysms should be considered only in selected cases not amenable to other treatments.

Treatment of Distal Anterior Cerebral Artery Aneurysms with Flow-Diverter Stents: A Single-Center Experience.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Flow diversion for aneurysms beyond the circle of Willis is still debated. Our aim was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of flow diversion treatment of distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Consecutive patients with distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms treated from January 2014 to October 2017 were evaluated retrospectively with prospectively maintained data. Treatment was performed only for unruptured or recanalized aneurysms after coiling. Technical feasibility, procedural complications, aneurysm occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale), and clinical outcome were evaluated. RESULTS: Fifteen patients were included in the study, with 17 distal anterior cerebral artery saccular aneurysms treated with flow-diverter stents. Mean aneurysm size was 4.25 ± 3.9 mm; range, 2-9 mm. Flow diversion was used as retreatment among 6 previously coiled aneurysms (5 ruptured and coiled in the acute phase, and 1 unruptured and recanalized). Stent deployment was technically successful in all cases. During the perioperative period, 1 patient experienced a transient minor stroke (6%), whereas 2 patients reported acute in-stent thrombosis with disabling ischemic complications (13%). Fourteen patients and 16 aneurysms were available during a mean radiologic follow-up of 12 months (range, 3-24 months). Overall, 12 (75%) aneurysms were completely occluded (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale score D), 1 aneurysm (6%) showed near-complete occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale score C), and 3 aneurysms (19%) were incompletely occluded (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale, score B). All 6 aneurysms previously coiled were completely occluded after flow diversion, whereas 70% of aneurysms treated with flow diverters alone showed complete/near-complete occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale C-D). There were no cases of aneurysm rupture, in-stent occlusion, or retreatment during long-term follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms with flow-diverter stents is feasible and effective, with high rates of aneurysm occlusion. Flow diversion plus coiling, in the retreatment of lesions previously coiled, allowed higher rates of occlusion compared with flow diverters alone. However, the risk of ischemic complications is not negligible, and flow-diversion treatment should be evaluated only for aneurysms not amenable to simple coil embolization.

Endovascular Treatment of Very Large and Giant Intracranial Aneurysms: Comparison between Reconstructive and Deconstructive Techniques-A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of reconstructive and deconstructive endovascular treatments of very large/giant intracranial aneurysms are not completely clear. PURPOSE: Our aim was to compare treatment-related outcomes between these 2 techniques. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 data bases was performed for studies published from 1990 to 2017. STUDY SELECTION: We selected series of reconstructive and deconstructive treatments with >10 patients. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to analyze occlusion rates, complications, and neurologic outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirty-nine studies evaluating 894 very large/giant aneurysms were included. Long-term occlusion of unruptured aneurysms was 71% and 93% after reconstructive and deconstructive treatments, respectively (P = .003). Among unruptured aneurysms, complications were lower after parent artery occlusion (16% versus 30%, P = .05), whereas among ruptured lesions, complications were lower after reconstructive techniques (34% versus 38%). Parent artery occlusion in the posterior circulation had higher complications compared with in the anterior circulation (36% versus 15%, P = .001). Overall, coiling yielded lower complication and occlusion rates compared with flow diverters and stent-assisted coiling. Complication rates of flow diversion were lower in the anterior circulation (17% versus 41%, P < .01). Among unruptured lesions, early aneurysm rupture (within 30 days) was slightly higher after reconstructive treatment (5% versus 0%, P = .08) and after flow diversion alone compared with flow diversion plus coiling (7% versus 0%). LIMITATIONS: Limitations were selection and publication biases. CONCLUSIONS: Parent artery occlusion allowed high rates of occlusion with an acceptable rate of complications for unruptured, anterior circulation aneurysms. Coiling should be preferred for posterior circulation and ruptured lesions, whereas flow diversion is relatively safe and effective for unruptured anterior circulation aneurysms.

Treatment of Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysms with Flow-Diverter Stents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of flow-diversion treatment of MCA aneurysms have not been well-established. PURPOSE: Our aim was to evaluate angiographic and clinical outcomes after flow diversions for MCA aneurysms. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase was performed for studies published from 2008 to May 2017. STUDY SELECTION: According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we selected studies with >5 patients describing angiographic and clinical outcomes after flow-diversion treatment of MCA aneurysms. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following outcomes: aneurysm occlusion rate, procedure-related complications, rupture rate of treated aneurysms, and occlusion of the jailed branches. DATA SYNTHESIS: Twelve studies evaluating 244 MCA aneurysms were included in this meta-analysis. Complete/near-complete occlusion was obtained in 78.7% (95% CI, 67.8%-89.7%) of aneurysms. The rupture rate of treated aneurysms during follow-up was 0.4% per aneurysm-year. The rate of treatment-related complications was 20.7% (95% CI, 14%-27.5%), and approximately 10% of complications were permanent. The mortality rate was close to 2%. Nearly 10% (95% CI, 4.7%-15.5%) of jailed arteries were occluded during follow-up, whereas 26% (95% CI, 14.4%-37.6%) had slow flow. Rates of symptoms related to occlusion and slow flow were close to 5%. LIMITATIONS: Small and retrospective series could affect the strength of the reported results. CONCLUSIONS: Given the not negligible rate of treatment-related complications, flow diversion for MCA aneurysms should be considered an alternative treatment when traditional treatment methods are not feasible. However, when performed in this select treatment group, high rates of aneurysm occlusion and protection against re-rupture can be achieved.