Clinical Value of Interventional Embolization for Sacral Chordoma before Surgical Treatment

Objetive:To evaluate the efficacy of preoperative transcatheter arterial embolization in the treatment of sacral chordoma,and to explore the choice of embolization timing.Methods:32 patients underwent the posterior approach after TAE of the main arteries that supplied the sacral chordoma.Intraoperative bleeding amount of each patient was recorded and compared between-group differences at different operation times.Results:After embolization,12 patients were received resection within 24 hours(group A),that of 10 cases between 24~48h(group B),of another 10 cases between 48~72h(group C).All of the 32 tumors were removed intact with intraoperative bleeding about(894±199)ml,without any shock or death,nor injuries on abdominal organs such as rectum and ureter.There was no statistical significance in tumor size among group A,B and C(P>0.05).Data gave statistical significance in intraoperative blood loss between group A and B(P<0.01),there was no statistical differences between group B and C(P>0.05),in spite of group B slightly less than group C.Conclusion:Preoperative TAE for excising the sacral tumor can significantly decrease intraoperative blood loss,make the surgical field clear,and facilitate the maximal removal of the sacral chordoma.It would be best to select the embolization timing within 24 hours before surgical operation.     

创伤性颈内动脉假性动脉瘤的血管内治疗

目的 探讨载瘤动脉闭塞、弹簧圈栓塞以及支架技术治疗颅内创伤性颈内动脉假性动脉瘤(pseudoaneurysm,PSA)的适应证及其疗效.方法 本组6例患者,3例海绵窦段PSA合并颈内动脉海绵窦痿(carotid-cavernous fistula,CCF),2例单纯颈内动脉PSA,1例CCF球囊栓塞后复查显示PSA.球囊闭塞CCF及创伤性颈内动脉PSA 1例,弹簧圈栓塞3例,颈内动脉球囊闭塞2例.根据6例患者的临床表现、影像学资料、治疗方法选择、临床疗效、随访资料以及文献,分析三种治疗方式的适应证.结果 本组患者无手术相关并发症发生,无脑缺血并发症.术后无鼻出血发生,3例眼球突出回复,1例随访半年视力改善,3例颅内杂音消失,3例瞳孔缩小,复查数字减影血管造影(DSA)未见PSA复发.结论 血管内治疗是治疗颈内动脉PSA的首选,合并CCF时可行球囊闭塞或载瘤动脉闭塞.对单纯窄颈者予以弹簧圈栓塞,对宽颈的采用支架技术结合弹簧圈栓塞,而位于颈内动脉岩段可选择带膜支架.

Abstract：

Objective To investigate the indication and result of parental artery occlusion, embolization with coils, stents in treatment of the traumatic carotid artery pseudoaneurysm. Methods There were six patients with traumatic carotid artery pseudoaneurysm including three patients of cavernous pseudoaneurysm combined with carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF), two with simple traumatic carotid artery pseudoaneurysm and one with traumatic carotid artery pseudoaneurysm that was found after CCF embolization with detachable balloon. The treatment included balloon occlusion for CCF and traumatic carotid pseudoaneurysm in one patient, coil embolization in three and intenal carotid artery balloon occlusion in two. The Clinical manifestations, imaging data, choice of treatment, clinical efficacy, follow-up data and literatures were analyzed to discuss the indications for three treatments. Results There was no cerebral ischemia or surgically-related complication. No epistaxis occurred. The eyeball protrusion restoration was found in three patients and intracranial bruit vanishing in three. Vision was improved one patient after half a year follow-up. The pupils shrank in three patients during follow - up. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) showed no recurrence of pseudoaneurysm. Conclusions Endovascular treatment is the preferred choice of treatment for traumatic carotid artery pseudoaneurysm. The occlusion or parent artery balloon occlusion can be used when the pseudoaneurysm is combined with CCF. Coil embolization can be used for shoes with narrow neck, stent technology combined with coil embolization for those with wide neck and the covered stent for the rock section of the internal carotid artery.     

低浓度α-氰基丙烯酸正丁酯栓塞兔VX2肝脏肿瘤的实验研究

目的 观察低浓度α-氰基丙烯酸正丁酯(NBCA)经肝动脉栓塞兔肝脏肿瘤的可行性、安全性和有效性.方法 24只实验兔,开腹在肝脏左叶种植瘤细胞建立VX2肝脏肿瘤模型,建模后14 d CT扫描测量肿瘤大小,并用数字表法随机等分为3组,后通过肝动脉对肿瘤进行栓塞.A组为空白对照组,B组为超液化碘油组,C组为2.5% NBCA组.肝脏损害通过检测血清丙氨酸转氨酶(ALT)和天冬氨酸转氨酶(AST)评价.栓塞术后第7天再次通过CT扫描测量肿瘤体积,肿瘤生长比率(术后7 d肿瘤体积与术前肿瘤体积之比);并于栓塞治疗后记录各组实验兔的生存时间.对ALT和AST采用重复测量方差分析,肿瘤生长比率和生存时间采用单因素方差分析比较.结果 所有动物模型均成功建立并插管治疗.A、B、C各组实验兔在栓塞前后不同时间ALT和AST均值的差异有统计学意义(ALT的 F值分别为10.508、16.443、19.828,AST 的F值分别为23.696、23.334、15.594,P值均＜0.05).栓塞治疗后第4天A、B、C组ALT水平分别为(49.4±13.5)、(115.2±48.8)、(124.7±49.4)U/L,AST水平分别为(52.3±12.0)、(128.3±50.1)、(137.0±66.9)U/L,B组和C组血清ALT和AST水平均较A组高(P值均＜0.05).B、C组术后第4天ALT、AST均较术前明显升高(P值均＜0.05).各组ALT和AST术后第7天和术前相比,差异均无统计学意义.术后第7天肝脏肿瘤生长比率在3组之间差异有统计学意义(F=110.865,P=0.000);C 组的肿瘤生长比率为(0.839±0.144)%,显著低于A 组的(2.978±0.547)%(P=0.000),与B组的(0.871±0.073)%相比差异无统计学意义(P=0.845).栓塞治疗后C组生存期为(38.9±4.0) d,明显长于A组的(32.1±3.1) d(P=0.006);与B组的(36.9±4.8)d相比差异无统计学意义(P=0.366).结论 经肝动脉栓塞低浓度NBCA治疗兔VX2肝脏肿瘤是一种可行的、安全的治疗方法,为治疗肝脏肿瘤提供一种新的选择,可能有潜在的临床推广价值.

Abstract：

Objective To investigate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of transarterial embolization with low concentration of n-butyl cyanoacrylate(NBCA) in rabbit VX2 liver tumor models. MethodsTwenty-four rabbits were implanted with VX2 hepatic tumors into the left hepatic lobes, and were scanned with CT to measure the volume of the tumor after 14 days. They were randomly divided into three groups with 8 rabbits assigned to each group. Transarterial embolization was conducted with physiological saline in control group A, with pure Lipiodol in group B, with 2.5% NBCA in group C. Hepatic toxicity was evaluated by blood biochemical analysis of the plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). One week later, the volumes of the tumors were measured by CT again. Tumor growth rate was the ratio of tumor's volume at 7th day after embolization to the tumors' volume before embolization. The survival periods of the rabbits of the three groups after treatment were also recorded. The data of ALT and AST mean values from each group were analyzed with repeated measurement analysis of variance (ANOVA). Tumor growth rates and survival periods were analyzed by using one-way ANOVA. Results All animal models were successfully established and underwent interventional catheterization. Both ALT and AST mean values of the rabbits in group A, B and C at each time point before and after embolization were significantly different (ALT F=10.508, 16.443, 19.828, respectively; AST F=23.696, 23.334, 15.594, respectively)(P＜0.05). ALT in group A, B, C were (49.4±13.5), (115.2±48.8), (124.7±49.4)U/L, while AST in group A, B, C were (52.3±12.0), (128.3±50.1), (137.0±66.9)U/L 4 days after embolization. The ALT and AST mean values were significantly elevated 4 days after embolization in group B and group C compared with those before embolization and those of group A 4 days after treatment(P＜0.05). However, the ALT and AST mean values showed no statistically significant difference in all the groups before embolization and 7 days after embolization. On the other hand, the growth rates of the tumors differed significantly among the three groups(F=110.865, P=0.000). The group C showed significantly lower tumor growth rate (0.839±0.144)% than the group A(2.978±0.547)%(P=0.000), but no significantly different tumor growth rate compared with group B(0.871±0.0725)%( P=0.845). Consequently, the survival period of the animals in group C(38.9±4.0) days was significantly longer than that in group A(32.1±3.1)days (P=0.006), while it was not significantly different from that in group B(36.9±4.8)days(P=0.366). ConclusionsTransarterial embolization with low concentration of NBCA was feasible and safe. It could be a new option of treatment for HCC and might have potential further clinical value.     

Preoperative embolization of primary bone tumors:A case control study

AIM:To study the safety and effectiveness of preoperative embolization of primary bone tumors in relation to intraoperative blood loss,intraoperative blood transfusion volume and surgical time.METHODS:Thirty-three patients underwent preoperative embolization of primary tumors of extremities,hip or vertebrae before resection and stabilization.The primary osseous tumors included giant cell tumors,aneurysmal bone cyst,osteoblastoma,chondroblastoma and chondrosarcoma.Twenty-six patients were included for the statistical analysis(embolization group)as they were operated within 0-48 h within preoperative embolization.A control group(non-embolization group,n = 28)with bone tumor having similar histological diagnosis and operated without embolization was retrieved from hospital record for statistical comparison.RESULTS:The mean intraoperative blood loss was 1300 mL(250-2900 mL),the mean intraoperative blood transfusion was 700 m L(0-1400 m L)and the mean surgical time was 221 ± 76.7 min for embolization group(group Ⅰ,n = 26).Non-embolization group(group Ⅱ,n = 28),the mean intraoperative blood loss was 1800 m L(800-6000 m L),the mean intraoperative blood transfusion was 1400 mL(700-8400 mL)and the meansurgical time was 250 ± 69.7 min.On comparison,statistically significant(P < 0.001)difference was found between embolisation group and non-embolisation group for the amount of blood loss and requirement of blood transfusion.There was no statistical difference between the two groups for the surgical time.No patients developed any angiography or embolization related complications.CONCLUSION:Preoperative embolization of bone tumors is a safe and effective adjunct to the surgical management of primary bone tumors that leads to reduction in intraoperative blood loss and blood transfusion volume.     

Angiographic follow-up of cerebral aneurysms treated with Guglielmi detachable coils（GDCs）： An analysis of 162 cases of 173 aneurysms

Objective To evaluate the mid-and long-term radiological outcomes of cerebral aneurysms with GDCs embolization. Methods One hundred and sixty-two patients with 173 aneurysms embolized with GDCs underwent angiographic follow-up from 1 to 54 months post-operatively and were retrospectively reviewed. Three neuro-radiologists reviewed each angiogram and made a comparison between initial and follow-up angiograms. Morphological outcomes were evaluated as follows： unchanged; progressive thrombosis; and re-opening or re-growth. Results Of 173 aneurysms with GDC embolization, 142 aneutysms had total or nearly total occlusion, 23 subtotal occlusion and 8 partial occlusion shown on initial angiograms. The incidence of re-opening was 17.1% （13/76） in less than 3 months, and 6.2% （6/97） between 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Four aneurysms showed recurrency （2.3%） on second follow-up angiography in one year after procedure and one-year cumulative recurrent rate was 13.3% of 56 aneurysms with the third follow-up angiography in the post-operation period of 12 to 54 months, four showed a little enlargement and the cmnulative recurrent rate so far was 20.2% （35/173）. Conclusions The direct and main causes for aneurysmal recurrence are incomplete and loosening packing. The first angiographic follow-up is recommended to be performed at 3 months or earlier after the procedure, especially in aneurysms with initial incomplete occlusion. Re-treatment with balloon-or stent-assisted coil embolization is recommended in re-opening aneurysms.     

3.0 Tesla vs 1.5 Tesla breast magnetic resonance imaging in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients

AIM:To compare 3.0 Tesla(T) vs 1.5T magnetic resonance(MR) imaging systems in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.METHODS:Upon Institutional Review Board approval,a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Actcompliant retrospective review of 147 consecutive 3.0T MR examinations and 98 consecutive 1.5T MR examinations in patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer between 7/2009 and 5/2010 was performed.Eleven patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the 3.0T group were excluded.Mammographically occult suspicious lesions(BIRADS Code 4 and 5) additional to the index cancer in the ipsilateral and contralateral breast were identified.Lesion characteristics and pathologic diagnoses were recorded,and results achieved with both systems compared.Statistical significance was analyzed using Fisher’s exact test.RESULTS:In the 3.0T group,206 suspicious lesions were identified in 55%(75/136) of patients and 96%(198/206) of these lesions were biopsied.In the 1.5T group,98 suspicious lesions were identified in 53%(52/98) of patients and 90%(88/98) of these lesions were biopsied.Biopsy results yielded additional malignancies in 24% of patients in the 3.0T group vs 14% of patients in the 1.5T group(33/136 vs 14/98,P = 0.07).Average size and histology of the additional cancers was comparable.Of patients who had a suspicious MR imaging study,additional cancers were found in 44% of patients in the 3.0T group vs 27% in the 1.5T group(33/75 vs 14/52,P = 0.06),yielding a higher positive predictive value(PPV) for biopsies performed with the 3.0T system.CONCLUSION:3.0T MR imaging detected more additional malignancies in patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer and yielded a higher PPV for biopsies performed with the 3.0T system.     

依达拉奉对中、重型颅脑外伤患者血清神经元特异性烯醇化酶和S100β蛋白浓度的影响

目的 探讨新型氧自由基清除剂依达拉奉对中、重型颅脑外伤患者血清神经元特异性烯醇化酶(neuron-specific enolase,NSE)和S100β蛋白浓度的影响.方法 选取中、重型颅脑外伤手术患者90例,将患者分为对照组(A组)、手术后应用依达拉奉组(B组)和手术前应用依达拉奉组(C组),各组30例,同时取门诊健康体检者20例作为健康对照组.采用ELISA法测定各组入院时以及手术后1,3,5,7 d外周静脉血血清NSE和S100β浓度.结果 A组、B组租C组患者血清NSE和S100β蛋白浓度在入院时及手术后1,3,5,7 d明显高于健康对照组,并在手术后第1天达高峰(P＜0.05).术后第1天,C组与对照组、A组、B组比较,血清NSE和S100β蛋白浓度降低(P＜0.05);A组与B组之间差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05).术后第3,5,7天,C组与A组比较,血清NSE和S100β蛋白浓度降低(P＜0.05);C组与B组比较,重型患者血清NSE和S100β蛋白浓度降低(P＜0.05),但中型患者血清NSE和S100β蛋白浓度差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05);B组与A组比较,血清NSE和S100β蛋白浓度降低(P＜0.05).结论 依达拉奉能有效降低中、重型颅脑外伤手术患者血清NSE和S100β蛋白浓度,越早使用降低越明显,特别是对于重型颅脑外伤手术患者,手术前应用依达拉奉能更有效地降低血清NSE和S100β蛋白浓度.

Abstract：

Objective To evaluate the effect of edaravone on moderate and severe brain injury patients by observing the change of the serum neuron-specific enolase ( NSE) and S100β protein. Methods A total of 90 patients with acute moderate and severe brain injury were selected and randomly divided into three groups, ie, control group (Group A), postoperative edaravone treatment group (Group B) and preoperative edaravone treatment group (Group C), 30 patients per group. In the meantime, 20 normal persons were set as the healthy control group. The concentrations of serum NSE and S100β protein of each group was measured by using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ( ELISA) on admission and at days 1,3,5 and 7 after operation. Results The serum NSE and S100β protein levels in the Group A, B and C was higher than that in the healthy group on admission and at days 1,3,5 and 7 postoperatively and reached the peak at day 1 after operation (P ＜0.05). The level of serum NSE and S100β protein in the Group C was lower than that in the healthy group, Group A and Group B at day 1 postoperatively (P＜0.05), with no statistical difference between Group B and Group A at day 1 postoperatively (P ＞0.05). The serum NSE and S100β protein levels in the Group C was lower than that in the Group A at days 3, 5 and 7 postoperatively (P ＜0.05). The serum NSE and S100β protein levels in the Group C with severe brain injury was lower than that in the Group B at days 3, 5 and 7 postoperatively (P ＜ 0.05), but there was no statistical difference in moderate injury group between Croup C and Group B. The serum NSE and S100β levels in the Group B was lower than that in the Group A at days 3, 5 and 7 postoperatively ( P ＜ 0. 05). Conclusions Edaravone can effectively reduce the serum NSE and S100β levels in the moderate and severe brain injury patients after operation. The earlier use of edaravone may beget the more significant effect, especially in patients with severe brain injury. The application of edaravone before operation can more effectively reduce the concentration of serum NSE and S100β protein.     

Bronchial stump fistula :treatment with covered retrievable hinged metallic stents-preliminary clinical experience

Objective To evaluate the preliminaily clinical efficacy and retrievability of a retrievable hinged covered metallic stent in the treatment of the bronchial stump fistula （BSF）. Methods Between April 2003 and March 2005, 8 patients with bronchial stump fistula after pneumonectomy or lobectomy were treated with two types （A and B） of retrievable hinged covered metallic stents. Type A stent was placed in 6 patients and type B in 2 under fluoroscopic guidance. The stent was removed with a retrieval set when BSF was healed or complications occurred. Results Stent placement in the bronchial tree was technically successful in all patients, without procedure-related complications. Immediate closure of the BSF was achieved in all patients after the procedure. Stents were removed from all patients but one. Removal of the stents was difficult in two patients due to tissue hyperplasia. Patients were followed up for 6 - 21 months. Placement of the stents remained stable in all patients except one due to severe cough. Permanent closure of BSF was achieved in 7 （87.5%） of 8 patients. Conclusion Use of a retrievable hinged covered expandable metallic stent is a simple, safe, and effective procedure for closure of the BSF. Retrieval of the stent seems to be feasible. （J Intervent Radiol, 2007, 16： 253-257）     

双源CT低剂量前瞻性心电触发序列扫描在冠状动脉血管成像的应用

Objective To evaluate low-dose CT coronary angiography with prospective electrocardiogram (ECG)-triggering using dual-source CT scanner.Methods Sixty-eight patients who underwent coronary CT angiography using a dual-source CT scanner were divided into 2 groups: group A (38 cases) and group B (30 cases).Prospective ECG-triggering sequence scan mode was employed for group A.Inclusion criteria included: heart rate <70 bpm, sinus rhythm, and heart rate fluctuation less than 10 bpm.Data acquisition was set at 70% of the RR-interval.Retrospective ECG-gating helical scan was performed for group B.Inclusion criteria included heart rates < 70 bpm and sinus rhythm.The exclusion criteria included heart failure and serious arrhythmias.In both groups, patients with a BMI≥24 kg/m2 were examined with a tube voltage of 120 kV, whereas patients with a BMI <24 kg/m2 were examined with a tube voltage of 100 kV.All images were transferred to a workstation for further processing and analysis.The imaging quality was evaluated.The imaging quality of coronary artery segments were compared with rank sum test between the two groups, and the radiation dose were compared with t test.Results A total of 476 coronary artery segments were evaluated in group A and 372 segments were evaluated in group B.The mean score of imaging quality for coronary artery segments in group A was 3.48±0.59 and that in group B was 3.53±0.58.There was no statistical difference in imaging quality between the two groups (Z=-1.432, P=0.187).The effective dose was on average (2.51±0.54) mSv (range 1.3--3.3 mSv) in group A, whereas on average (14.55±3.54) rosy (range 7.1--20.2 mSv) in group B.There was a statistical difference between the two groups (t=18.484, P=0.000).Conclusions Low-dose prospective ECG-triggering sequence scan in dual-source CT coronary angiography is feasible in patients with low heart rate and regular cardiac rhythm.This scan mode can substantially reduce radiation doses while preserving good diagnostic image quality.     

HIF-1α 基因多态性与鼻咽癌放疗敏感性的相关性研究

目的 研究低氧诱导因子-1α基因(HIF-1α)第12外显子1790(G→A)单核苷酸多态性与鼻咽癌放疗敏感性的关系.方法 收治的经病理明确诊断、完成根治性放疗、随访3年以上的189例鼻咽癌患者,根据随访结果分为治愈组135例和复发组54例,利用聚合酶链式反应-限制性片段长度多态性PCR-RFLP技术检测HIF-1α基因第12外显子1790(G→A)的单核苷酸多态性基因型,并分析其基因多态性特征.结果 治愈组和复发组HIF-1α基因1790(G→A)单核苷酸多态性的GG、GA和AA基因型频率分别为77.04%、20.74%、2.22%和59.26%、38.89%、1.85%.G、A等位基因频率分别为87.4%、13.9%和78.7%、21.3%.鼻咽癌复发组HIF-1α基因1790(G→A)单核苷酸多态性等位基因分布频率高于治愈组(x2=6.619,P＜0.05).结论 HIF-1α基因1790(G→A)多态性可能与鼻咽癌放射敏感性相关.

Abstract：

Objective To explore the association between the genetic polymorphism of hypoxia inducible factor 1 α (HIF-1α) G1790A and the radiosensitivity of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.Methods A total of 189 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated with radical radiotherapy were followed-up for 3 years.The patients were divided into cured group with 135 cases and recurrence group with 54 cases by clinical follow-up results.PCR-RFLP was used to determine the mononucleotide genotypes of HIF-1α G1790A.Results The observed genotype frequencies of HIF-1α gene 1790 (G→A) for GG, GA and AA were 70.04% , 20.74% , 2.22% in cured group and 59.26% , 38.89% , 1.85% in recurrence group, respectively.The allele frequencies for G and A were 87.4% , 13.9% in cured groups and 78.7% ,21.3% in recurrence group, respectively, without significant difference in distribution of allele frequencies between the two groups(x2 =6.919, P =0.077).Conclusions The genetic polymorphisms of HIF-1α G1790A might be related with the radiosensitivity of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.     

Comparative study of covered stent with coil embolization in the treatment of cranial internal carotid artery aneurysm: a nonrandomized prospective trial

To evaluate whether Willis covered stent implantation yielded angiographic and clinical results were better than those with coil embolization. Eighty-nine patients with cranial internal carotid artery (CICA) aneurysms were treated nonrandomly with covered stents (n = 43, group A) or coil embolization (n = 46, group B). Data on the technical success, procedure time, initial and final angiographic results, and final clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed at >6 months post-procedure. Covered stent placement and coil embolization were successful in all patients, except for one patient in group A. The initial angiographic results showed complete occlusion in 34 group-A patients (80.9%; 95% CI: 69%, 93%) and 24 group-B patients (52.2%; 95% CI: 37%, 67%) (P = 0.004). The final angiographic results indicated complete occlusion in 39 group A patients (39/41, 95.1%; 95% CI: 88%, 102%) and 22 group B patients (48.9%; 95% CI: 34%, 64%) (P < 0.001). The average procedure time was shorter in group A than that in group B (P < 0.001). CICA aneurysm treatment with covered stents yielded better intermediate-term angiographic outcome than those with the recommended approach of coil embolization. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01029938)     

A new covered stent designed for intracranial vasculature: application in the management of pseudoaneurysms of the cranial internal carotid artery

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The management of intracranial pseudoaneurysms is controversial. The purpose of this study was to provide a preliminary evaluation of the clinical efficacy of a Willis covered stent specially designed for the intracranial vasculature in the management of a pseudoaneurysm of the cranial internal carotid artery (CICA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight patients with pseudoaneurysms of the CICA were treated with use of the Willis covered stent. The flexibility of the entire stent system was gauged from the resistance met when reaching the target lesion and was categorized as no resistance, no apparent resistance, or resistance that could be overcome. The apposition of the Willis stent after deployment was scored as excellent with no endoleak, good with a small endoleak, or bad with an apparent endoleak. Follow-up angiography was performed 3 to 12 months after placement of the stent, and angiographic assessments were categorized as endoleak, stenosis of the covered segment of vessel, or occlusion of parent arteries. Follow-up clinical evaluations were also performed, and outcomes were graded as full recovery, improvement, unchanged, and aggravation. RESULTS: Endovascular treatment was technically successful in all aneurysms without procedural-related complications, and all of the stents were easily navigated to the targeted lesions in the CICA. Complete resolution of the pseudoaneurysm was observed in 6 patients immediately after the procedure, and a minimal endoleak into the aneurysm persisted in 2 patients. No morbidity or mortality and no technical adverse event occurred. A follow-up angiogram confirmed complete reconstruction of the internal carotid artery, with no recurrent aneurysmal filling and no occurrence of stenosis in the area of the stent. By the final follow-up visit, 4 patients had fully recovered, 3 had improved, and 1 patient's condition was unchanged. CONCLUSION: On the basis of our preliminary experience, the Willis covered stent specially designed for the intracranial vasculature can manage a CICA pseudoaneurysm safely and effectively, but longer follow-up and expanded clinical trials are needed.     

Treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms with a self-expanding stent system: initial clinical experience

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Currently available stents for intracranial use usually are balloon-expandable coronary stents that carry the risk of damaging a dysplastic segment of the artery, with potential vessel rupture. We assessed the technical feasibility and efficacy of the combined application of a flexible, self-expanding neurovascular stent and detachable coils in the management of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms in humans. METHODS: Four consecutive patients with a wide-necked intracranial aneurysm were treated with a combined approach that consisted of delivery of a flexible self-expanding neurovascular stent through a microcather to cover the neck of the aneurysm and subsequent filling of the aneurysm with coils through the stent interstices. The aneurysms were located at the internal carotid artery (n=2) and the basilar tip encroaching the P1 segment (n=2). Previous attempts with conventional endosaccular coil packing alone failed in all cases. RESULTS: Stent placement in the desired position with complete or nearly complete occlusion of the aneurysms was feasible in all patients. In one patient, aneurysm perforation with the microcatheter occurred and necessitated ventricular drainage, which led to a large parenchymal and intraventricular hemorrhage because of the strong anticoagulation regimen. Six-month follow-up demonstrated no focal neurologic sequelae in any of the patients, except slight memory dysfunction in the patient with bleeding. CONCLUSION: Preliminary data demonstrate that this extremely flexible stent is technically easy to deploy and can be easily and safely maneuvered through severely tortuous vessels, enabling the treatment of intracranial wide-necked aneurysms. The combination of endovascular reconstruction of the parent vessel with use of a self-expanding stent followed by coil embolization offers a promising therapeutic alternative for wide-necked aneurysms not amenable to coil embolization alone. Although immediate angiographic results are promising, long-term angiographic and clinical follow-up is essential to determine permanent vessel patency and aneurysm occlusion rate.     

The feasibility and efficacy of treatment with a Willis covered stent in recurrent intracranial aneurysms after coiling

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Aneurysm recurrence is an innate problem after coiling, and the recurrence rate is higher in complicated aneurysms. We evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of using the Willis covered stent in treating recurrent aneurysms after coil embolization.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight aneurysms in 8 patients treated with detachable coils had confirmed recurrent aneurysms: 3 giant, 1 large, 1 dissecting, and 3 small wide-necked. The recurrent aneurysms involved C3 in 1 patient, C4 in 1, C7 in 5, and V4 in 1. A total of 11 covered stents were implanted into 8 target arteries. Follow-up angiography was performed 1–16 months after the procedure. Clinical follow-up data were collected and retrospectively analyzed, grading as fully recovered, improved, unchanged, or aggravated.RESULTS: Willis covered stent placement succeeded technically in all of the aneurysms. No technique-related adverse event occurred. Total occlusion was achieved immediately in 6 aneurysms, and a small endoleak was observed in 2 aneurysms. No mortality or morbidity occurred during or after the procedures, including during the follow-up period. Follow-up angiograms revealed that all 8 of the recurrent aneurysms were completely isolated, and 8 parent vessels kept patency, except 1 with mild stenosis. Clinical neurologic symptoms fully resolved in 5 patients, improved in 1, and were unchanged in 2 at the end of the follow-up period.CONCLUSIONS: In this small study with a middle-term follow-up, the Willis covered stent was used safely and effectively to occlude recurred aneurysms after coiling. Longer-term follow-up and additional clinical experience are needed to fully determine the safety and efficacy of the device.

Endovascular coil embolization is an effective and popular technique in treating ruptured or unruptured aneurysms. However, aneurysm remnants or recurrence is an inherent problem with coil embolization. Follow-up angiography in previous large cohort studies revealed recurrence rates varying from 4.7% to 28.6% in coil-treated aneurysms.^1–5 This rate is higher in giant, large, dissecting, and wide-necked aneurysms. Aneurysm reopenings may expose patients to the risk of hemorrhage. Most recurrent aneurysms can be treated by recoiling with or without balloon or stent assistance, but for complicated aneurysms, like giant or very large aneurysms and dissecting aneurysms, coil re-embolization techniques do not typically solve the problem.^6–8 Here, we demonstrate an advanced new reconstruction technique by using the Willis covered stent (MicroPort, Shanghai, China) to completely occlude recurrent aneurysms from the normal circulation.     

Analysis of Complications and Recurrences of Aneurysm Coiling with Special Emphasis on the Stent-Assisted Technique

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:Stent-assisted coiling has expanded the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. With the use of continuously compiled data, we reviewed the role and drawbacks of stent-assisted coiling.MATERIALS AND METHODS:We compiled data from consecutive patients from 2003–2012 who underwent coiling, with or without stent assistance. Clinical and angiographic results were analyzed retrospectively.RESULTS:Of 1815 saccular aneurysms in 1505 patients, 323 (17.8%) were treated with stents (299 procedures) and 1492 (82.2%) without stents (1400 procedures). Procedure-related complications occurred in 9.4% with stents versus 5.6% without stents (P = .016, relative risk 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1–2.7). Ischemic complications were more frequent in the stent group than in the no-stent group (7.0% versus 3.5%; P = .005; relative risk, 1.7; 95% CI 1.2–2.5), as were hemorrhagic complications (2.3% versus 1.9%, P = .64). Procedure-induced mortality occurred in 2.7% (8/299) with stents versus 1.1% (15/1400) without stents (P = .029; relative risk, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.1–3.5). Logistic regression analysis identified wide-neck aneurysms as the most significant independent predictor of complications. A total of 64.1% (207/323) of aneurysms treated with stents and 70.3% (1049/1492) treated without stents have been followed, disclosing angiographic recurrence in 15.5% (32/207) versus 35.5% (372/1049), respectively (P < .0001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the presence of a stent was the most important factor for the reduction of angiographic recurrence (P < .0001; relative risk, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.6–3.3).CONCLUSIONS:The stent-assisted coiling technique is associated with a significant decrease in recurrences but a significant increase in complications. The treatment of wide-neck aneurysms remains hazardous.

The stent-assisted coiling technique has broadened the indication for coil embolization, and numerous reports have depicted the value of stents in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms.^1–6We present herein the clinical and angiographic results of a consecutive series of 1815 aneurysms treated over a 9-year period. The aims of this retrospective study were to place the role of stent-assisted coiling into perspective and to determine the factors associated with procedural complications.     

Neuroform颅内支架辅助栓塞宽颈颅内动脉瘤的初步经验

目的　报道我科使用Neuroform支架辅助可脱式弹簧圈栓塞宽颈脑动脉瘤的初步经验。方法　 2 2例 2 4枚宽颈颅内动脉瘤采用Neuroform支架和弹簧圈进行栓塞 ,其中急性破裂动脉瘤 19枚、未破裂动脉瘤 5枚。结果　支架均成功地释放 ,支架置入后的造影未发现有瘤内造影剂滞留的血流动力学改变。 10 0 %闭塞动脉瘤 18枚 ,90 %以上闭塞 5枚 ,1枚伴发的未破裂小型宽颈动脉瘤在支架置入后微导管无法超选 ,载瘤动脉均通畅。有 2枚动脉瘤虽有支架阻挡 ,但仍有部分弹簧圈畔进入载瘤动脉。所有患者没有出现与支架置入有关的症状性缺血性并发症。 17例造影随访中 ,有 1例在 3个月复查时发现再通 ,进行 2次栓塞完全闭塞动脉瘤 ,其余未见复发 ,结论　Neuroform颅内支架使用安全有效 ,适合于宽颈颅内动脉瘤的支架辅助弹簧圈栓塞 ,特别适合于迂曲的脑血管 ;其径向支撑力较差 ,在输送微导管时应防止其移位 ;其支架网眼较大 ,对血流动力学改变不明显 ,致密填塞是重要的 ,在输送弹簧圈时仍应防止弹簧圈畔进入载瘤动脉 ;术前、术后抗血小板药物的应用以及术后严格的系列造影随访是必要的。     

Treatment of carotid siphon aneurysms by use of the Willis stent graft: an angiographic and histopathological study

Objective

We designed a carotid siphon (CS) aneurysm model in dogs to test a new stent graft (the Willis covered stent) and compared tissue reaction over 12-month follow-up versus a comparison group with stents implanted in straight vessels.

Methods

Twenty-four saccular sidewall aneurysms (group A) and 12 CS aneurysms (group B) were created surgically. A Willis stent graft was implanted in each aneurysm. Angiography was performed immediately and at 1-, 3-, 6- and 12-month post-implantation to investigate aneurysm isolation, endoleak, stent angulation, parent artery (PA) patency and restenosis. Light and scanning electron microscopy were used to identify aneurysmal sac thrombi, intima hyperplasia and endothelial progress.

Results

Immediate angiography demonstrated mild endoleak in two aneurysms and three stent angulations in group B. Follow-up at 12 months revealed resolved endoleaks, occlusion in one PA and mild stenosis in three in group B. In group A, occlusion occurred in one PA and mild stenosis in two. Light microscopy revealed new intima, and all aneurysm sacs were filled with thrombi. In group B, endothelial progress was complete at 12 months, and closely correlated with haemodynamic changes.

Conclusions

Application of a Willis stent graft is a feasible method of treating CS aneurysms, and it exhibits a prolonged endothelial progress compared with that in straight vessels.     

Flow Diversion with Low-Profile Braided Stents for the Treatment of Very Small or Uncoilable Intracranial Aneurysms at or Distal to the Circle of Willis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:The endovascular treatment of aneurysms located at or distal to the circle of Willis and not amenable to coiling remains a challenge. We report our experience with flow-diversion treatment using low-profile braided stents as a stent monotherapy procedure for treating distally located very small or uncoilable aneurysms.MATERIALS AND METHODS:We retrospectively reviewed our data bases to identify patients with aneurysms located at or distal to the circle of Willis who were treated with stent monotherapy using low-profile braided stents. The immediate and follow-up angiographic findings and clinical status of the patients were assessed.RESULTS:Twenty aneurysms in 19 patients were included in the study. The mean size of the aneurysms was 4.7 ± 2.4 mm. Patients were treated via telescopic implantation of 2 stents for 11 aneurysms; single-stent placement was used for the remaining aneurysms. The technical success rate was 95%. We observed a technical complication in 1 case (5.3%) and a late ischemic event in another (5.3%). The final angiographies during a mean follow-up of 14.7 months showed complete aneurysm occlusion in 73.7%. The complete occlusion rate of the aneurysms treated with telescopic stent placement was 81.8%. The modified Rankin scale scores of all patients at the last follow-up were between 0 and 2.CONCLUSIONS:Flow diversion with low-profile braided stents as a stent monotherapy procedure for very small or uncoilable intracranial aneurysms located at or beyond the circle of Willis is a promising, relatively safe, and durable endovascular procedure.

In the past decade, several self-expandable stents dedicated to intracranial use have been introduced to treat wide-neck and complex aneurysms previously not amenable to coiling.^1–4 Stents create a mechanical scaffold, which prevents coil protrusion into the parent artery. In addition to this mechanical scaffolding effect, the implantation of stents also produces hemodynamic and biologic effects in the parent arteries that promote aneurysm occlusion. Stent deployment across the orifice of an aneurysm redirects the blood flow in the parent artery to decrease hemodynamic stress, which facilitates thrombosis in the aneurysmal sac.⁵ Furthermore, stents induce neointimal proliferation in the parent artery, which eventually leads to healing of the aneurysm neck.⁶ The hemodynamic and biologic effects of stents promote the progressive occlusion of partially coiled aneurysms and impede their recanalization.On the basis of the hemodynamic and biologic effects of stents, flow-diversion treatment as a stent monotherapy procedure using conventional stents has been proposed for the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms not amenable to coiling or alternative open surgical procedures.⁷ Flow diversion as a stent monotherapy procedure consists of the implantation of a self-expandable stent or stents across the neck of an aneurysm, without coiling the aneurysm sac. A limited number of previous case series reported the application of stent monotherapy with balloon-expandable or conventional self-expandable stents and focused on the treatment of aneurysms located proximal to the circle of Willis.^7–10Low-profile braided stents have been recently introduced to treat aneurysms located at small-sized, distal parent arteries. Low-profile intracranial stents can be deployed into arteries with diameters between 1.5 and 3.5 mm, and they can be delivered through microcatheters with an internal diameter of 0.0165 inches, which allows easier navigation in small-sized, delicate vessels.¹¹ In this report, we present our experience with flow-diversion treatment as a stent monotherapy procedure for treating very small or uncoilable intracranial aneurysms located at or beyond the circle of Willis using low-profile braided stents. In this retrospective study, we investigated the feasibility, efficacy, and midterm durability of the stent monotherapy procedure with LEO Baby stents (Balt, Montmorency, France).     

Endovascular treatment of intracranial vertebral artery dissections with stent placement or stent-assisted coiling

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Endovascular treatment with stent placement or stent-assisted coiling was recently introduced as an alternative to parent artery occlusion in intracranial vertebral artery dissections. We describe the efficacy and limitations of this method. METHODS: Fourteen patients with intracranial vertebral artery dissection were treated with stent placement (10 patients) or stent-assisted coiling (4 patients). Double overlapping stents were deployed in 4 of 10 patients with stent placement alone. Angiographic follow-up at 6 to 12 months was available in 13 patients. RESULTS: In 13 patients with dissecting aneurysm, immediate angiographic outcomes were complete occlusion (1 patient), nearly complete (2 patients), and incomplete (10 patients). Follow-up angiograms of 12 of these patients showed complete occlusion (6 patients) and incomplete (6 patients; 1 unstable and 5 stable). Complete occlusion rates in follow-up angiograms were superior in double stent placement (75%) or stent-assisted Guglielmi detachable coil (GDC) embolization to stent placement alone (0%). There were no instances of postprocedural ischemic attacks, new neurologic deficits, and no new minor or major strokes before patient discharge. On the modified Rankin scale applied in follow-up, all patients were assessed as functionally improved or of stable clinical status. CONCLUSIONS: Intracranial vertebral artery dissections were acceptably treated with stent placement or stent-assisted coiling, and the patency could be preserved at follow-up. However, the efficiency of stent placement alone for intracranial vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm was limited. Stent-assisted coil embolization or double stent placements are a viable alternative for complete occlusion of dissecting aneurysms.     

大型/巨大型颅内动脉瘤支架辅助与单纯弹簧圈栓塞术后复发率比较

目的 比较单纯弹簧圈栓塞和支架辅助弹簧圈栓塞颅内大型/巨大型动脉瘤的复发率及远期血管造影随访结果.方法 回顾性分析2004年1月至2016年1月收治的90例(91枚)大型或巨大型(＞10 mm)颅内动脉瘤患者临床及影像资料,其中接受单纯弹簧圈栓塞治疗(NAC组)52例(52枚),支架辅助弹簧圈栓塞治疗(SAC组)38例(39枚),统计分析两组间术后动脉瘤复发率差异及复发危险因素.结果 术后动脉瘤复发率、再治疗率分别为38.5％(35/91)、20.9％(19/91),其中SAC组分别为35.9％(14/39)与17.9％(7/39),NAC组分别为40.4％(21/52)与23.1％(12/52),但两组间差异均无统计学意义(P＞0.05).多因素Logistic回归分析显示,破裂动脉瘤(OR=0.284,95％CI=0.083～0.978,P=0.046)、单纯弹簧圈栓塞(OR=5.03,95％CI=1.04～24.44,P=0.045)、伴有高血压(OR=0.13,95％CI=0.036～0.51,P=0.003)及远期随访(OR=1.002,95％CI=1.001～1.003,P=0.002)是大型/巨大型动脉瘤复发的危险因素.结论 支架辅助弹簧圈栓塞可降低颅内大型/巨大型动脉瘤复发率,动脉瘤破裂、单纯弹簧圈栓塞、远期随访及伴发高血压是动脉瘤栓塞术后复发的独立危险因素.