Stent-assisted coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms using the Solitaire™ AB Neurovascular Remodeling Device: initial and midterm follow-up results.

Introduction: The purpose of this retrospective review was to present our experience in using the Solitaire™ AB Neurovascular Remodeling Device in the stent-assisted treatment of intracranial aneurysms, focusing on midterm results. To date, this is the largest series using the Solitaire™ AB Neurovascular Remodeling Device.

Methods: From February 2008 to December 2010, 102 patients harboring 104 wide-necked or complex intracranial aneurysms were consecutively enrolled. Forty-five patients presented with an acute subarachnoid hemorrhage. Stent implantation was combined with a standard coiling procedure in 100 patients; in 13 of them, by bailout stenting. On average, at least one clinical and angiographic follow-up was available in 63 patients after 6.3 months. Forty-nine patients were followed for up to 13.6 months.

Results: Of the stents, 98.4 % could be deployed successfully. A Raymond class 1 occlusion was obtained in 51 % of the aneurysms, a Raymond class 2 occlusion in 44 %, and in the remaining 5 % a Raymond class 3 occlusion was obtained. Procedure-related morbidity was 3.9 % (n = 4) and procedure-related mortality was 2.9 % (n = 3). During the follow-up period, 39.2 % of the aneurysms showed further thrombosis, 45.1 % remained unchanged, and 15.7 % recanalized. In the follow-up clinical examination according to the modified Rankin Scale, 16.3 % of all patients presented with clinical improvement, 73.5 % were unchanged, and 10.2 % of patients deteriorated.

Conclusion: Considering that stent-assisted coiling is indicated in unfavorable aneurysms, which are not amenable to standard coiling procedures, the Solitaire AB stent proved to be an efficient and safe device in midterm angiographic and clinical follow-up results.