Endovascular Management of Ruptured Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Aneurysms Associated with Celiac Axis Stenosis

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of transcatheter arterial embolization for ruptured pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) aneurysms associated with celiac axis stenosis (CS). Seven patients (four men and three women; mean age, 64; range, 43–84) were treated with transcatheter arterial embolization between 2002 and 2007. They were analyzed with regard to the clinical presentation, radiological finding, procedure, and outcome. All patients presented with sudden epigastric pain or abdominal discomfort. Contrast-enhanced CT showed a small aneurysm and retroperitoneal hematoma around the pancreatic head in all patients. The aneurysms ranged from 0.3 to 0.9 cm in size. In one patient, two aneurysms were detected. The aneurysms were located in the pancreaticoduodenal artery (n = 5) and the dorsal pancreatic artery (n = 3). Embolization was performed with microcoils in all aneurysms (n = 8). N-Butyl 2-cyanoacrylate (n = 1) and gelatine particle (n  = 1) were also used. Complete occlusion was achieved in four patients. In the other three patients, a significantly reduced flow to the aneurysm remained at final angiography. However, these aneurysms were thrombosed on follow-up CT within 2 weeks. And there was no recurrence of the symptoms and bleeding during follow-up (mean, 28 months; range, 5–65 months) in all patients. In conclusion, transcatheter arterial embolization for PDA aneurysms associated with CS is effective. Significant reduction of the flow to the aneurysm at final angiography may be predictive of future thrombosis.     

Transcatheter Coil Embolization of an Aneurysm of the Pancreatico-duodenal Artery with Occluded Celiac Trunk

We report on a case of a wide-necked aneurysm of the pancreatico-duodenal artery with occlusion of the celiac trunk in an asymptomatic patient. The aneurysm was considered to be at high risk of rupture. Successful embolization after interdisciplinary consultation was followed with color-coded duplex ultrasound (CCDS) demonstrating significant flow reduction. Three weeks later CCDS and angiography demonstrated exclusion of the aneurysm and a patent arterial supply of the liver and spleen fed by superior mesenteric artery (SMA) collaterals. The patient has done well so far, without major adverse clinical events or evidence for tissue necrosis of the liver, pancreas or spleen. Discussion of the case and review of the literature indicate that transcatheter embolization is the therapy of choice even in complicated cases.     

Transcatheter Coil Embolization of Splenic Artery Aneurysm

The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical results and technical problems of transcatheter coil embolization for splenic artery aneurysm. Subjects were 16 patients (8 men, 8 women; age range, 40-80 years) who underwent transcatheter embolization for splenic artery aneurysm (14 true aneurysms, 2 false aneurysms) at one of our hospitals during the period January 1997 through July 2005. Two aneurysms (12.5%) were diagnosed at the time of rupture. Multiple splenic aneurysms were found in seven patients. Aneurysms were classified by site as proximal (or strictly ostial) (n = 3), middle (n = 3), or hilar (n = 10). The indication for transcatheter arterial embolization was a false or true aneurysm 20 mm in diameter. Embolic materials were fibered coils and interlocking detachable coils. Embolization was performed by the isolation technique, the packing technique, or both. Technically, all aneurysms were devascularized without severe complications. Embolized aneurysms were 6–40 mm in diameter (mean, 25 mm). Overall, the primary technical success rate was 88% (14 of 16 patients). In the remaining 2 patients (12.5%), partial recanalization occurred, and re-embolization was performed. The secondary technical success rate was 100%. Seven (44%) of the 16 study patients suffered partial splenic infarction. Intrasplenic branching originating from the aneurysm was observed in five patients. We conclude that transcatheter coil embolization should be the initial treatment of choice for splenic artery aneurysm.     

Embolization of the Gastroduodenal Artery Before Selective Internal Radiotherapy: A Prospectively Randomized Trial Comparing Platinum-Fibered Microcoils with the Amplatzer Vascular Plug II

The Amplatzer Vascular Plug II (AVP II) is a novel device for transcatheter vessel occlusion, for which only limited comparative data exist. Embolotherapy of the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) is essential before internal radiotherapy (SIRT) in order to prevent radiation-induced peptic ulcerations due to migration of yttrium-90 microspheres. The purpose of this study was to compare the vascular anatomical limitations, procedure time, effectiveness, and safety of embolization of the GDA with coils versus the AVP II. Fifty patients stratified for SIRT were prospectively randomized for embolization of the GDA with either coils or the AVP II. The angle between the aorta and the celiac trunk, diameter of the GDA, fluoroscopy time and total time for embolization, number of embolization devices, complications, and durability of vessel occlusion at follow-up angiography for SIRT were recorded. A t-test was used for statistical analysis. Embolizations with either coils or the AVP II were technically feasible in all but two patients scheduled for embolization of the GDA with the AVP II. In both cases the plug could not be positioned due to the small celiac trunk outlet angles of 17° and 21°. The mean diameter of the GDA was 3.7 mm (range, 2.2–4.8 mm) for both groups. The procedures differed significantly in fluoroscopy time (7.8 min for coils vs. 2.6 min for the AVP II; P < 0.001) and embolization time (23.1 min for coils vs. 8.8 min for the AVP II; P < 0.001). A mean of 6.0 ± 3.2 coils were used for GDA embolization, while no more than one AVP II was needed for successful vessel occlusion (P < 0.001). One coil migration occurred during coil embolization, whereas no procedural complication was encountered with the use of the AVP II. Vessel reperfusion was noted in only one patient, in whom coil embolization was performed. In conclusion, embolization of the GDA with the AVP II is safe, easy, rapid, and highly effective; only an extremely sharp-angled celiac trunk outlet represented an anatomical limitation for device deployment.     

Fibromuscular Dysplasia-Related Renal Artery Stenosis Associated with Aneurysm: Successive Endovascular Therapy

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a nonatherosclerotic, noninflammatory vascular disease. FMD of the renal arteries is one of the leading causes of curable hypertension. The simultaneous occurrence of FMD and renal artery aneurysm has been described previously. In this case, we present a fibrodysplastic lesion and an aneurysm in a renal artery treated with a percutanous transluminal angioplasty and coil embolization.     

Treatment of a Celiac Trunk Aneurysm Close to the Hepato-splenic Bifurcation by Using Hepatic Stent-graft Implantation and Splenic Artery Embolization

We present a case of a 73-year-old man in whom a celiac trunk aneurysm close to the hepato-splenic bifurcation was discovered and treated by using celiac–hepatic stent-grafts implantation and splenic artery embolization.     

脑动脉瘤的电解脱铂金圈栓塞治疗

目的 评估脑动脉瘤电解脱铂金圈(EDPC)栓塞治疗的临床疗效，探讨手术时机及术中操作注意事项。资料与方法 1999年2月～2003年2月用EDPC栓塞治疗脑动脉瘤32例。其中30例为蛛网膜下腔出血(SAH)患者，术前HunT ＆ Hess分级：19例为Ⅰ级，6例为Ⅱ级，5例为Ⅳ～Ⅴ级。32例33个动脉瘤，均采用EDPC治疗。EDPC为美国波士顿科学国际有限公司下属Target公司生产的GDc和德国Dendron公司生产的EDC两种。为了安全、准确地栓塞动脉瘤，在放置铂金圈过程中及解脱前均行透视监视和数字减影血管造影，以监控栓塞的动脉瘤全程。结果 32例脑动脉瘤患者共33个动脉瘤中，31个动脉瘤栓塞成功，2个因载瘤动脉严重痉挛失败，占6％。按动脉瘤的填塞程度分为：完全填塞24例(72．7％)，不完全填塞6例(18．1％)；2例梭形动脉瘤行载瘤动脉栓塞。非血栓性并发症发生率9％。无血栓形成及血栓性栓塞并发症，亦无神经功能障碍、瘫痪和死亡等永久性并发症。结论 EDPC栓塞治疗动脉瘤是目前比较理想的治疗方法，其创伤小，操作简便，术后恢复快，可达到近似外科手术的效果。     

Endovascular Embolization of Visceral Artery Aneurysms with Ethylene-vinyl Alcohol (Onyx): A Case Series

We report the application of the liquid embolic agent ethylene-vinyl alcohol (Onyx; MicroTherapeutics, Irvine, CA, USA) in the management of visceral artery aneurysms. The technique and indications for using Onyx are discussed with emphasis on the management of wide-necked aneurysms and maintenance of patency of the parent vessel. None of the cases was considered suitable for stent-grafting or embolization with conventional agents. Two aneurysms of the renal artery bifurcation and one aneurysm of the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery were treated. Following treatment there was complete exclusion of all aneurysms. There was no evidence of end-organ infarction. Follow-up with intervals up to 6 months has shown sustained aneurysm exclusion. Onyx is known to be effective in the management of intracranial aneurysms. Our experience demonstrates the efficacy and applicability of the use of Onyx in the treatment of complex visceral artery aneurysms.     

Superior Mesenteric Artery Pseudoaneurysm Associated with Celiac Axis Occlusion Treated Using Endovascular Techniques

The case of a 30-year-old woman with a post-traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery and associated celiac axis occlusion is presented. The patient was successfully treated with celiac artery recanalization and placement of a covered stent within the superior mesenteric artery. Follow-up at 3, 6, and 12 months and 3 years demonstrated patency of the covered stent and continued exclusion of the aneurysm. Although the long-term success of this procedure is unknown this management option should be considered where facilities are available, to reduce the increased morbidity associated with open surgical procedure.     

子宫动脉栓塞术治疗子宫腺肌病62例临床分析

目的探讨子宫动脉栓塞术治疗子宫腺肌病的临床疗效。方法对62例根据临床症状及超声诊断为子宫腺肌病的患者,行子宫动脉栓塞术。应用Cordis 4F Cobra导管完成双侧子宫动脉插管。先将超液化碘油加平阳霉素HPYM)乳化后进行栓塞,再用明胶海绵栓塞子宫动脉主干。术后观察病人痛经程度,月经量及子宫体积变化。结果62例病人栓塞后56例(90.3%)术后2月痛经症状完全消失;4例治疗后症状明显缓解,术后第四月痛经消失。52例患者月经量较术前明显减少,全部病例子宫体积及病灶呈进行性缩小。结论介入法子宫动脉栓塞术治疗子宫腺肌病,创伤小,安全性好;临床疗效显著,能显著改善了病人生活质量。     

Rupture of True Aneurysms of the Pancreaticoduodenal Arcade: Treatment with Transcatheter Arterial Embolization

We present 2 cases of ruptured true aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade, underscoring the role of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) as the initial treatment of choice in pancreaticoduodenal arcade aneurysm. Ruptured true aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) are uncommon and few cases have been reported, whereas false aneurysms are seen more often. The first patient we describe is a 63-year-old woman with an aneurysm of the PDA initially treated by TAE. The second case is a 67-year-old woman with an aneurysm of the inferior PDA postoperatively treated by TAE. In both patients TAE via a combined superior mesenteric artery and celiac axis approach was successful. Follow-up contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed prolonged occlusion of both aneurysms. A review of the literature concerning TAE supports our experience that TAE of ruptured aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade, when feasible, is at least as effective as conventional surgery, but with lower morbidity and mortality. Therefore, TAE should be the initial treatment of choice in this group of patients.     

Perioperative Hemodynamic Monitoring of Common Hepatic Artery for Endovascular Embolization of a Pancreaticoduodenal Arcade Aneurysm with Celiac Stenosis

This report describes perioperative hemodynamic monitoring of the common hepatic artery (CHA) during endovascular treatment of a pancreaticoduodenal arcade aneurysm, in a patient with celiac artery stenosis caused by the median arcuate ligament. Pressure monitoring was performed as a safety measure against critical complications such as liver ischemia. As the aneurysm was located in the anterior pancreaticoduodenal artery (APDA) and the posterior pancreaticoduodenal artery (PPDA) was small in caliber, the patient was considered to be at a high risk of liver ischemia. No significant change in pressure was observed in the CHA on balloon occlusion test in the APDA. Immediately after embolization, the PPDA enlarged and the pressure in the CHA was well maintained. Pressure monitoring appears to improve patient safety during endovascular treatment of visceral aneurysms.     

血管内支架治疗颈动脉及椎动脉狭窄的20例临床分析

目的探讨血管内支架治疗颈动脉及椎动脉狭窄的安全性及有效性。资料与方法对20例颈、椎动脉狭窄行颈动脉球囊扩张及支架成形术(CAS)治疗的患者作回顾性分析,对临床表现、治疗方法及治疗前后的影像资料改变进行分析。结果 20例患者行CAS治疗,共成功放置支架22枚,11例采用颈动脉保护装置。术前干预血管平均狭窄度(76.2±11.4)%,术后支架膨胀不满意采用球囊后扩者3例。术后造影显示15例残余狭窄度<10%,4例<20%,仅1例<38%,术后平均狭窄度(12.4±8.2)%。治疗前后狭窄度比较有显著统计学意义(P<0.001)。随访平均(12.3±5.6)个月,7例支架术后6个月发现支架有不同程度再狭窄,但再狭窄率均未超过30%,均无神经系统症状。结论血管内支架治疗颈动脉及椎动脉狭窄是安全和有效的,近期随访无严重再狭窄(>50%)及颅内严重并发症发生。     

Transcatheter Embolization of Pulmonary Artery False Aneurysm Associated with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension

A 29-year-old woman with primary pulmonary hypertension presented with recurrent hemoptysis. Contrast-enhanced CT of the chest demonstrated the enhanced mass surrounded by consolidation related to parenchymal hemorrhage. Pulmonary angiography suggested that the mass was a pulmonary artery false aneurysm. After a microcatheter was superselectively inserted into the parent artery of the false aneurysm, the false aneurysm was successfully treated by transcatheter embolization with coils. Her hemoptysis has never recurred.     

Unruptured Aneurysms with Cranial Nerve Symptoms: Efficacy of Endosaccular Guglielmi Detachable Coil Treatment

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of endosaccular Guglielmi detachable coil (GDC) treatment of unruptured aneurysms causing cranial nerve (CN) symptoms.

Materials and Methods

Among a database of 218 patients whose aneurysms were treated using GDC, seven patients met the criteria for unruptured aneurysms presenting with symptoms and signs of CN palsy. Changes in CN symptoms before and after GDC treatment were reviewed.

Results

Aneurysms were located in the internal carotid-posterior communicating artery (n=3), the basilar bifurcation (n=1) and the cavernous internal carotid artery (n=3). CN symptoms included ptosis (n=6), mydriasis (n=2), and extraocular muscle (EOM) disorder (CN III: n=4; CN VI: n=3). Overall, improvement or resolution of CN symptoms after treatment was noted in five patients. CN symptoms in cases involving small (≤ 10 mm) and intradural aneurysms tended to respond better to GDC treatment. Ptosis was the initial symptom to show improvement, while EOM dysfunction responded least favourably.

Conclusion

GDC coil packing appears to be an appropriate treatment method for the relief of CN symptoms associated with intracranial aneurysms.     

Development of a Hypertrophic Ovarian Artery After Uterine Artery Embolization with Polyvinyl Alcohol Particles

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) for the treatment of symptomatic leiomyomata has shown excellent short-term clinical efficacy and minimal complications, yet recurrences after successful treatments at mid- and long-term follow-up have been reported. Exact etiologies for such recurrences have not been fully understood. We present a case of symptom recurrence with the development of a hypertrophic ovarian artery after successful UAE with polyvinyl alcohol particles, successfully treated with ovarian and repeat UAEs.     

Massive Hemorrhage from Internal Carotid Artery Pseudoaneurysm Successfully Treated by Transcatheter Arterial Embolization with Assessment of Regional Cerebral Oxygenation

A 54-year-old male presented with intermittent massive hemorrhage from recurrent oropharyngeal cancer. The angiogram showed the encasements at the main trunk of the left internal carotid artery (ICA) and external carotid artery (ECA). Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) of the ECA with gelatin sponge particles and microcoils was performed. However, hemorrhage recurred several hours after the initial TAE. The second angiogram showed a large pseudoaneurysm of the ICA developing at the encasement on the initial angiogram. As a simple neurologic test, regional cerebral oxygenation (rSO₂) was assessed with and without manual compression of the common carotid artery (CCA). With compression of the left CCA, the rSO₂ did not change. We therefore performed isolation of the pseudoaneurysm. We embolized proximally and distally to the ICA pseudoaneurysm with microcoils and the pseudoaneurysm disappeared. No major complications occurred and no massive hemorrhage recurred until death from the cancer. TAE was an effective treatment for massive hemorrhage caused by tumor invasion to ICA. Assessment of rSO₂ was a simple and useful neurologic test predicting the cerebral blood flow to prevent complications of TAE.