Justin Mascitelli - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Justin Mascitelli

Research paper thumbnail of The impact of evidence: evolving therapy for acute ischemic stroke in a large healthcare system

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2016

BackgroundWith a recent surge of clinical trials, the treatment of ischemic stroke has undergone ... more BackgroundWith a recent surge of clinical trials, the treatment of ischemic stroke has undergone dramatic changes.ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of evidence and a revamped stroke protocol on a large healthcare system.MethodsA retrospective review of 69 patients with ischemic stroke treated with intra-arterial therapy was carried out. Cohort 1 included patients treated before implementation of a new stroke protocol, and cohort 2 after implementation. Angiographic outcome was graded using the Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS).ResultsPrimary outcomes comparing cohorts demonstrated decreased arrival-to-puncture time (cohort 2: 104 vs cohort 1: 181 min, p<0.001), similar TICI 2b/3 rates (86.5% vs 81.3%, p=0.5530), and similar percentage of patients with discharge mRS 0–2 (18.9% vs 21.9%, p=0.7740). Notable secondary outcomes for cohort 2 included...

Research paper thumbnail of Wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery and basilar apex treated by endovascular techniques: a multicentre, core lab adjudicated study evaluating safety and durability of occlusion (BRANCH)

Journal of neurointerventional surgery, 2018

BRANCH (wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery and basilar apex treated by... more BRANCH (wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery and basilar apex treated by endovascular techniques) is a multicentre, retrospective study comparing core lab evaluation of angiographic outcomes with self-reported outcomes. Consecutive patients were enrolled from 10 US centres, aged between 18 and 85 with unruptured wide-neck middle cerebral artery (MCA) or basilar apex aneurysms treated endovascularly. Patient demographics, aneurysm morphology, procedural information, mortality and morbidity data and core lab and self-reported modified Raymond Roy (RR) outcomes were obtained. 115 patients met inclusion criteria. Intervention-related mortality and significant morbidity rates were 1.7% (2/115) and 5.8% (6/103) respectively. Core lab adjudicated RR1 and 2 occlusion rates at follow-up were 30.6% and 32.4% respectively. The retreatment rate within the follow-up window was 10/115 (8.7%) and in stent stenosis at follow-up was 5/63 (7.9%). Self-reporting shows a statis...

Research paper thumbnail of In Reply: Protective Effects of Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Outcomes After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Nationwide Analysis

Research paper thumbnail of Endovascular Therapy Versus Microsurgical Clipping of Ruptured Wide Neck Aneurysms (EVERRUN Registry): a multicenter, prospective propensity score analysis

Journal of Neurosurgery

OBJECTIVE Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the superiority of endovascular therapy ... more OBJECTIVE Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the superiority of endovascular therapy (EVT) compared to microsurgery (MS) for ruptured aneurysms suitable for treatment or when therapy is broadly offered to all presenting aneurysms; however, wide neck aneurysms (WNAs) are a challenging subset that require more advanced techniques and warrant further investigation. Herein, the authors sought to investigate a prospective, multicenter WNA registry using rigorous outcome assessments and compare EVT and MS using propensity score analysis (PSA). METHODS Untreated, ruptured, saccular WNAs were included in the analysis. A WNA was defined as having a neck ≥ 4 mm or a dome/neck ratio (DNR) < 2. The primary outcome was the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 1 year posttreatment, as assessed by blinded research nurses (good outcome: mRS scores 0–2) and compared using PSA. RESULTS The analysis included 87 ruptured aneurysms: 55 in the EVT cohort and 32 in the MS cohort. Demographi...

Research paper thumbnail of Sinus thrombectomy for purulent cerebral venous sinus thrombosis utilizing a novel combination of the Trevo stent retriever and the Penumbra ACE aspiration catheter: the stent anchor with mobile aspiration technique

Case Reports, 2015

Intracranial complications of sinusitis are rare but life threatening. We present a case of a 17-... more Intracranial complications of sinusitis are rare but life threatening. We present a case of a 17-year-old woman with sinusitis who deteriorated over the course of 12 days from subdural empyema and global purulent cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. The patient was managed with surgery and mechanical thrombectomy utilizing a novel &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;stent anchor with mobile aspiration technique&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;, in which a Trevo stent retriever (Stryker) was anchored in the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) while a 5 MAX ACE reperfusion catheter (Penumbra) was passed back and forth from the SSS to the sigmoid sinus with resultant dramatic improvement in venous outflow. The patient was extubated on postoperative day 3 and was discharged with minimal lower extremity weakness on postoperative day 11. This is the first report using the Trevo stent retriever for sinus thrombosis. It is important to keep these rare complications in mind when evaluating patients with oral and facial infections.

Research paper thumbnail of Predictors of treatment failure following coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms

Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, 2015

We present a retrospective review of 357 consecutive patients with 419 aneurysms treated with coi... more We present a retrospective review of 357 consecutive patients with 419 aneurysms treated with coil embolization. Although incomplete occlusion and recurrence of intracranial aneurysms following coil embolization is a well-known problem, the factors that influence and predict treatment failure are still debated. For this study, we excluded non-coiling endovascular techniques (flow diversion) and non-saccular aneurysms (fusiform). The modified Raymond-Roy occlusion classification (MRRC) was used to grade the aneurysms. Treatment failure was defined as filling of the aneurysm dome (MRRC Class IIIa or IIIb) at the first angiographic follow-up (average 8 months). Univariate statistical tests were employed to select variables for incorporation into a multivariable logistic regression model. Multivariate analysis identified greater aneurysm volume (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001), packing density (PD) less than 31% (p=0.007) and initial MRRC Class IIIb (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001) as predictors of treatment failure. Incomplete neck coverage with coils was associated with treatment failure in univariate but not multivariate analysis. Class IIIb status was more predictive of treatment failure compared to all Class III (odds ratio 168 versus 14.4). Clinical outcomes were similar in both groups except that there were more retreatments in the treatment failure group (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001). Aneurysm volume, PD and initial occlusion class are associated with angiographic outcome, consistent with prior literature. The MRRC is a powerful predictor of treatment failure. These results will be useful in the effort to both prevent and predict treatment failure after coil embolization, however, they should be verified in a prospective study.

Research paper thumbnail of Association of a Distal Intradural-Extracranial Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Aneurysm With Chiari Type I Malformation

Neurosurgery, 2015

Distal extracranial posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms are very rare lesions a... more Distal extracranial posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms are very rare lesions and have not been previously reported in association with a Chiari type I malformation (CMI). A 56-year-old woman with a distal, low-lying, intradural-extracranial PICA aneurysm presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage and was treated with coil embolization. The patient presented again 1 month later with symptoms of a CMI and was found to have tonsillar herniation and a large syrinx that appeared to be exacerbated by the coil mass. The patient was re-treated with a suboccipital craniectomy, C1-2 laminectomy, aneurysm trapping and excision, end-to-end PICA anastomosis, and expansile duraplasty. Although just a single case, important teaching points regarding the angiographic appearance of a CMI and treatment options for distal PICA aneurysms that are situated below the foramen magnum can be learned. A low-lying caudal PICA loop should trigger a workup for a CMI. Caution should be taken when using coil embolization for aneurysms in the high cervical spinal canal. Bypass with aneurysm trapping and excision may be a superior treatment option in these cases because the posterior fossa and high cervical canal can be concomitantly decompressed. To our knowledge, this is the only case reported of a distal intradural-extracranial PICA aneurysm associated with a CMI. CMI, Chiari type I malformationFM, foramen magnumPICA, posterior inferior cerebellar arterySAH, subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Research paper thumbnail of Angiographic outcome of intracranial aneurysms with neck remnant following coil embolization

Journal of neurointerventional surgery, Jan 2, 2014

The degree of aneurysm occlusion following coil embolization has an impact on aneurysm recanaliza... more The degree of aneurysm occlusion following coil embolization has an impact on aneurysm recanalization. To explain the natural history of intracranial aneurysms with neck remnant, Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification (RROC) class II. A single-center, retrospective study of 198 patients with 209 aneurysms treated with coil embolization that were initially either RROC class I or II. The angiographic outcomes at short- and long-term follow-up were compared as well as the complication/re-treatment rates. Atypical aneurysms and those that had been previously treated were excluded. Ninety-nine class I aneurysms were compared with 110 class II aneurysms. There was no difference in recanalization rate between the groups (class I 3.3% vs class II 8.5%, p=0.478) at short-term follow-up (8.2 months) and at subsequent follow-ups (21.7 and 52.1 months). There was also no difference in re-treatment rates (class I 3.3% vs class II 8.5%, p=0.196) or complication rates (class I 9.1% vs class II 4.6%,...

Research paper thumbnail of Ophthalmic artery occlusion immediately following placement of a flow diverter without clinical sequelae

Interventional neuroradiology : journal of peritherapeutic neuroradiology, surgical procedures and related neurosciences, 2015

Branch vessel occlusion is a potential consequence following flow diverter placement for intracra... more Branch vessel occlusion is a potential consequence following flow diverter placement for intracranial aneurysms, but the frequency and clinical impact has not been completely elucidated. In this case of a 45-year-old woman with a large left internal carotid artery aneurysm, the ophthalmic artery was covered by two flow diverters and was acutely occluded along with the aneurysm. Common carotid injections failed to demonstrate collateral flow to the ophthalmic artery via the external carotid artery. Nonetheless, the patient woke from anesthesia with objectively stable and subjectively improved vision. This case demonstrates that an acute occlusion of the ophthalmic artery without external carotid artery collaterals can be tolerated clinically.

Research paper thumbnail of Ruptured distal AICA pseudoaneurysm presenting years after vestibular schwannoma resection and radiation

Case Reports, 2015

Distal anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) pseudoaneurysms are very rare lesions. Although... more Distal anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) pseudoaneurysms are very rare lesions. Although cases have been previously reported, only a few have been reported as a result of vestibular schwannoma (VS) radiation, none have been reported as a result of VS resection, and only one has been reported as treated with parent vessel occlusion (PVO) with n-butyl cyanoacrylate (nBCA). We report a case of a 65-year-old man with a history of right-sided VS surgery and radiation who presented years later with a ruptured pseudoaneurysm of the distal right AICA and was treated with endovascular PVO using nBCA. The aneurysm was completely obliterated and the patient had no worsening of symptoms or neurological exam. The case illustrates a very rare complication of VS surgery and radiation as well as an effective treatment for distal AICA aneurysms.

Research paper thumbnail of Cervical-petrous internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm presenting with otorrhagia treated with endovascular techniques

BMJ case reports, 2014

Cervical-petrous internal carotid artery (CP-ICA) pseudoaneurysms are rare and have different eti... more Cervical-petrous internal carotid artery (CP-ICA) pseudoaneurysms are rare and have different etiologies, presentations, and treatment options. A middle-aged patient with a history of chronic otitis media presented with acute otorrhagia and was found to have a left-sided CP-ICA pseudoaneurysm. The patient was a poor surgical candidate with difficult arterial access. The pseudoaneurysm was treated with stand-alone coiling via a left brachial approach with persistent contrast filling seen only in the aneurysm neck at the end of the procedure. The patient re-presented 12 days later with repeat hemorrhage and rapid enlargement of the neck remnant, and was treated with a covered stent via a transcervical common carotid artery cut-down. A covered stent may provide a more definitive treatment for CP-ICA pseudoaneurysms compared with standalone coiling.

Research paper thumbnail of The finding of alleged tubercle bacilli in the blood

Research paper thumbnail of Primary Intraosseous Cavernous Hemangioma of the Clivus: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Journal of Neurological Surgery Reports, 2013

The patient is an 89-year-old right-handed woman with past medical history significant for rheuma... more The patient is an 89-year-old right-handed woman with past medical history significant for rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, osteoporosis, and hypothyroidism. She presented with 2 days of dysarthric speech, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. She endorsed new constant "pressure" headaches that began 4 weeks prior to presentation that radiated to behind her left eye, ear, and jaw. She denied any previous history of headaches.

Research paper thumbnail of Brain metastasis from uterine serous carcinoma: A case report and review of literature

Gynecologic Oncology Reports, 2015

While endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer with a generally favorable progn... more While endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer with a generally favorable prognosis, the histological subtype of serous carcinoma is more aggressive and fortunately uncommon. Uterine serous carcinoma (USC) accounts for about 10% of cases of endometrial cancer and yet 39% of its deaths ). Brain metastasis from endometrial cancer is also rare, with a rate of 0.6% from a review of over 10,000 patients (Piura and Piura, 2012). This recent review of 35 studies by Piura et al. identified 115 cases of endometrial cancer that metastasized to the brain, of which 4 were USC (Piura and Piura, 2012). A further review of the literature uncovered an additional 4 cases. Here we present a new case from our institution, review the existing literature, and discuss current treatment options.

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis of early angiographic outcome using unique large diameter coils in comparison with standard coils in the embolization of cerebral aneurysms: a retrospective review

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2014

The initial experience with the large diameter Penumbra Coil 400 (PC400) system has been positive... more The initial experience with the large diameter Penumbra Coil 400 (PC400) system has been positive regarding safety, efficacy, improved packing density and cost effectiveness, but follow-up data are limited. This is a single-center retrospective review of 76 aneurysms treated with PC400 coils compared with 301 aneurysms treated with a variety of different bare platinum and bioactively coated coils. Atypical and giant aneurysms were excluded as well as those that had undergone previous treatment. Occlusion classification was determined immediately after the procedure and at short-term follow-up. Compared with controls, in the PC400 group fewer coils were used (3.53 vs 5.44, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05), procedure time was decreased (48 vs 64 min, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05) and packing density was increased (31.7% vs 24.8%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). There were more grade III aneurysms (71.1% vs 38.2%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05) and fewer grade I aneurysms (13.2% vs 30.2%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05) in the PC400 group than in the control group immediately after the procedure. At first follow-up, however, more aneurysms in the PC400 group improved (51.3% vs 28.7%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05) in angiographic grade leading to similar rates of acceptable outcome (grades I or II) at first follow-up (PC400 79.5% vs control 77.2%). The adverse event rate was similar in the two groups. Large diameter PC400 coils can be used to safely treat cerebral aneurysms with fewer coils, decreased procedure time and increased packing density compared with standard coils. The early angiographic outcome is similar to that achieved with standard coils.

Research paper thumbnail of P-033 Aneurysm embolization treatment efficiency: comparing the penumbra coil 400TM system to conventional coils

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2012

Research paper thumbnail of Initial experience with Penumbra Coil 400 versus standard coils in embolization of cerebral aneurysms: a retrospective review

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2012

The Penumbra Coil 400 System (PC 400) is the newly introduced platinum coil system designed speci... more The Penumbra Coil 400 System (PC 400) is the newly introduced platinum coil system designed specifically to enhance filling efficiency by increasing coil diameter. Our goal was to study the packing and treatment advantage of the PC 400&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s unique geometric configuration compared with conventional coils (controls). 16 aneurysms embolized with the PC 400 in 2011 were compared with 79 equally matched aneurysms embolized with conventional coils from 2004 to 2011. Primary outcomes assessed were acute packing density, embolization time, and the number of coils required for aneurysm occlusion. Aneurysm embolization with the PC 400 achieved a higher packing density (36.8% vs 28.1%; p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.005) and with fewer coils (an average of 3.9 vs 6.1 coils per aneurysm; p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). In addition, the total procedural time for the subjects treated with the PC 400 was significantly less (45.7 vs 64.1 min; p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). There were no procedural complications associated with the PC 400. Compared with conventional coils, the PC 400 is more efficient in the embolization of cerebral aneurysms, achieving greater packing density with fewer coils and less time without compromising safety.

Research paper thumbnail of An update to the Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification of intracranial aneurysms treated with coil embolization

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2014

The Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification (RROC) is the standard for evaluating coiled aneurysms (... more The Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification (RROC) is the standard for evaluating coiled aneurysms (Class I: complete obliteration; Class II: residual neck; Class III: residual aneurysm), but not all Class III aneurysms behave the same over time. This is a retrospective review of 370 patients with 390 intracranial aneurysms treated with coil embolization. A Modified Raymond-Roy Classification (MRRC), in which Class IIIa designates contrast within the coil interstices and Class IIIb contrast along the aneurysm wall, was applied retrospectively. Class IIIa aneurysms were more likely to improve to Class I or II than Class IIIb aneurysms (83.34% vs 14.89%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001) and were also more likely than Class II to improve to Class I (52.78% vs 16.90%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001). Class IIIb aneurysms were more likely to remain incompletely occluded than Class IIIa aneurysms (85.11% vs 16.67%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001). Class IIIb aneurysms were larger with wider necks while Class IIIa aneurysms had higher packing density. Class IIIb aneurysms had a higher retreatment rate (33.87% vs 6.54%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001) and a trend toward higher subsequent rupture rate (3.23% vs 0.00%, p=0.068). We propose the MRRC to further differentiate Class III aneurysms into those likely to progress to complete occlusion and those likely to remain incompletely occluded or to worsen. The MRRC has the potential to expand the definition of adequate coil embolization, possibly decrease procedural risk, and help endovascular neurosurgeons predict which patients need closer angiographic follow-up. These findings need to be validated in a prospective study with independent blinded angiographic grading.

Research paper thumbnail of Bare Platinum vs Matrix Detachable Coils for the Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms: A Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis and Review of the Literature

Neurosurgery, 2011

BACKGROUND: Despite increasing acceptance of endovascular coiling for treating intracranial aneur... more BACKGROUND: Despite increasing acceptance of endovascular coiling for treating intracranial aneurysms, incomplete occlusion remains a limitation. Attempts to reduce recanalization have prompted creation of polyglycolic/polylactic acid-coated (Matrix) coils shown to improve neointima formation; however, previous publications demonstrate conflicting results regarding their efficacy. Few studies account for factors influencing recurrence, and only 4 studies include bare platinum (BP) coil control groups. OBJECTIVE: To compare initial and short-and mid-term occlusion as well as retreatment rates using Matrix compared with BP coils. METHODS: Retrospective review of patients undergoing coiling of cerebral aneurysms from 2001 to 2005 was performed. Analysis included a multivariate logistic regression model designed to detect a 35% absolute difference in initial occlusion between coil treatment groups with 80% power. RESULTS: Complete initial occlusion was achieved in 64% of BP (n = 45) and 63% of Matrix (n = 56) cases (P = 1.0). Follow-up occlusion rates in the short term and mid term were 52% and 60%, respectively, for BP cases and 42% and 67%, respectively, for Matrix cases (P = .24 and P = .38, respectively). After adjusting for size, morphology, volumetric packing density, location, rupture, and balloon remodeling, no difference in initial and subsequent occlusion or retreatment rates for BP coils versus Matrix coils was appreciated. CONCLUSION: After controlling for factors influencing recanalization, this investigation failed to show a significant difference between coil groups.

Research paper thumbnail of Single-center Comparison of Bioactive versus Bare Platinum Coils for the Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms

Research paper thumbnail of The impact of evidence: evolving therapy for acute ischemic stroke in a large healthcare system

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2016

BackgroundWith a recent surge of clinical trials, the treatment of ischemic stroke has undergone ... more BackgroundWith a recent surge of clinical trials, the treatment of ischemic stroke has undergone dramatic changes.ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of evidence and a revamped stroke protocol on a large healthcare system.MethodsA retrospective review of 69 patients with ischemic stroke treated with intra-arterial therapy was carried out. Cohort 1 included patients treated before implementation of a new stroke protocol, and cohort 2 after implementation. Angiographic outcome was graded using the Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS).ResultsPrimary outcomes comparing cohorts demonstrated decreased arrival-to-puncture time (cohort 2: 104 vs cohort 1: 181 min, p<0.001), similar TICI 2b/3 rates (86.5% vs 81.3%, p=0.5530), and similar percentage of patients with discharge mRS 0–2 (18.9% vs 21.9%, p=0.7740). Notable secondary outcomes for cohort 2 included...

Research paper thumbnail of Wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery and basilar apex treated by endovascular techniques: a multicentre, core lab adjudicated study evaluating safety and durability of occlusion (BRANCH)

Journal of neurointerventional surgery, 2018

BRANCH (wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery and basilar apex treated by... more BRANCH (wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery and basilar apex treated by endovascular techniques) is a multicentre, retrospective study comparing core lab evaluation of angiographic outcomes with self-reported outcomes. Consecutive patients were enrolled from 10 US centres, aged between 18 and 85 with unruptured wide-neck middle cerebral artery (MCA) or basilar apex aneurysms treated endovascularly. Patient demographics, aneurysm morphology, procedural information, mortality and morbidity data and core lab and self-reported modified Raymond Roy (RR) outcomes were obtained. 115 patients met inclusion criteria. Intervention-related mortality and significant morbidity rates were 1.7% (2/115) and 5.8% (6/103) respectively. Core lab adjudicated RR1 and 2 occlusion rates at follow-up were 30.6% and 32.4% respectively. The retreatment rate within the follow-up window was 10/115 (8.7%) and in stent stenosis at follow-up was 5/63 (7.9%). Self-reporting shows a statis...

Research paper thumbnail of In Reply: Protective Effects of Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Outcomes After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Nationwide Analysis

Research paper thumbnail of Endovascular Therapy Versus Microsurgical Clipping of Ruptured Wide Neck Aneurysms (EVERRUN Registry): a multicenter, prospective propensity score analysis

Journal of Neurosurgery

OBJECTIVE Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the superiority of endovascular therapy ... more OBJECTIVE Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the superiority of endovascular therapy (EVT) compared to microsurgery (MS) for ruptured aneurysms suitable for treatment or when therapy is broadly offered to all presenting aneurysms; however, wide neck aneurysms (WNAs) are a challenging subset that require more advanced techniques and warrant further investigation. Herein, the authors sought to investigate a prospective, multicenter WNA registry using rigorous outcome assessments and compare EVT and MS using propensity score analysis (PSA). METHODS Untreated, ruptured, saccular WNAs were included in the analysis. A WNA was defined as having a neck ≥ 4 mm or a dome/neck ratio (DNR) < 2. The primary outcome was the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 1 year posttreatment, as assessed by blinded research nurses (good outcome: mRS scores 0–2) and compared using PSA. RESULTS The analysis included 87 ruptured aneurysms: 55 in the EVT cohort and 32 in the MS cohort. Demographi...

Research paper thumbnail of Sinus thrombectomy for purulent cerebral venous sinus thrombosis utilizing a novel combination of the Trevo stent retriever and the Penumbra ACE aspiration catheter: the stent anchor with mobile aspiration technique

Case Reports, 2015

Intracranial complications of sinusitis are rare but life threatening. We present a case of a 17-... more Intracranial complications of sinusitis are rare but life threatening. We present a case of a 17-year-old woman with sinusitis who deteriorated over the course of 12 days from subdural empyema and global purulent cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. The patient was managed with surgery and mechanical thrombectomy utilizing a novel &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;stent anchor with mobile aspiration technique&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;, in which a Trevo stent retriever (Stryker) was anchored in the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) while a 5 MAX ACE reperfusion catheter (Penumbra) was passed back and forth from the SSS to the sigmoid sinus with resultant dramatic improvement in venous outflow. The patient was extubated on postoperative day 3 and was discharged with minimal lower extremity weakness on postoperative day 11. This is the first report using the Trevo stent retriever for sinus thrombosis. It is important to keep these rare complications in mind when evaluating patients with oral and facial infections.

Research paper thumbnail of Predictors of treatment failure following coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms

Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, 2015

We present a retrospective review of 357 consecutive patients with 419 aneurysms treated with coi... more We present a retrospective review of 357 consecutive patients with 419 aneurysms treated with coil embolization. Although incomplete occlusion and recurrence of intracranial aneurysms following coil embolization is a well-known problem, the factors that influence and predict treatment failure are still debated. For this study, we excluded non-coiling endovascular techniques (flow diversion) and non-saccular aneurysms (fusiform). The modified Raymond-Roy occlusion classification (MRRC) was used to grade the aneurysms. Treatment failure was defined as filling of the aneurysm dome (MRRC Class IIIa or IIIb) at the first angiographic follow-up (average 8 months). Univariate statistical tests were employed to select variables for incorporation into a multivariable logistic regression model. Multivariate analysis identified greater aneurysm volume (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001), packing density (PD) less than 31% (p=0.007) and initial MRRC Class IIIb (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001) as predictors of treatment failure. Incomplete neck coverage with coils was associated with treatment failure in univariate but not multivariate analysis. Class IIIb status was more predictive of treatment failure compared to all Class III (odds ratio 168 versus 14.4). Clinical outcomes were similar in both groups except that there were more retreatments in the treatment failure group (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001). Aneurysm volume, PD and initial occlusion class are associated with angiographic outcome, consistent with prior literature. The MRRC is a powerful predictor of treatment failure. These results will be useful in the effort to both prevent and predict treatment failure after coil embolization, however, they should be verified in a prospective study.

Research paper thumbnail of Association of a Distal Intradural-Extracranial Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Aneurysm With Chiari Type I Malformation

Neurosurgery, 2015

Distal extracranial posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms are very rare lesions a... more Distal extracranial posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms are very rare lesions and have not been previously reported in association with a Chiari type I malformation (CMI). A 56-year-old woman with a distal, low-lying, intradural-extracranial PICA aneurysm presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage and was treated with coil embolization. The patient presented again 1 month later with symptoms of a CMI and was found to have tonsillar herniation and a large syrinx that appeared to be exacerbated by the coil mass. The patient was re-treated with a suboccipital craniectomy, C1-2 laminectomy, aneurysm trapping and excision, end-to-end PICA anastomosis, and expansile duraplasty. Although just a single case, important teaching points regarding the angiographic appearance of a CMI and treatment options for distal PICA aneurysms that are situated below the foramen magnum can be learned. A low-lying caudal PICA loop should trigger a workup for a CMI. Caution should be taken when using coil embolization for aneurysms in the high cervical spinal canal. Bypass with aneurysm trapping and excision may be a superior treatment option in these cases because the posterior fossa and high cervical canal can be concomitantly decompressed. To our knowledge, this is the only case reported of a distal intradural-extracranial PICA aneurysm associated with a CMI. CMI, Chiari type I malformationFM, foramen magnumPICA, posterior inferior cerebellar arterySAH, subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Research paper thumbnail of Angiographic outcome of intracranial aneurysms with neck remnant following coil embolization

Journal of neurointerventional surgery, Jan 2, 2014

The degree of aneurysm occlusion following coil embolization has an impact on aneurysm recanaliza... more The degree of aneurysm occlusion following coil embolization has an impact on aneurysm recanalization. To explain the natural history of intracranial aneurysms with neck remnant, Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification (RROC) class II. A single-center, retrospective study of 198 patients with 209 aneurysms treated with coil embolization that were initially either RROC class I or II. The angiographic outcomes at short- and long-term follow-up were compared as well as the complication/re-treatment rates. Atypical aneurysms and those that had been previously treated were excluded. Ninety-nine class I aneurysms were compared with 110 class II aneurysms. There was no difference in recanalization rate between the groups (class I 3.3% vs class II 8.5%, p=0.478) at short-term follow-up (8.2 months) and at subsequent follow-ups (21.7 and 52.1 months). There was also no difference in re-treatment rates (class I 3.3% vs class II 8.5%, p=0.196) or complication rates (class I 9.1% vs class II 4.6%,...

Research paper thumbnail of Ophthalmic artery occlusion immediately following placement of a flow diverter without clinical sequelae

Interventional neuroradiology : journal of peritherapeutic neuroradiology, surgical procedures and related neurosciences, 2015

Branch vessel occlusion is a potential consequence following flow diverter placement for intracra... more Branch vessel occlusion is a potential consequence following flow diverter placement for intracranial aneurysms, but the frequency and clinical impact has not been completely elucidated. In this case of a 45-year-old woman with a large left internal carotid artery aneurysm, the ophthalmic artery was covered by two flow diverters and was acutely occluded along with the aneurysm. Common carotid injections failed to demonstrate collateral flow to the ophthalmic artery via the external carotid artery. Nonetheless, the patient woke from anesthesia with objectively stable and subjectively improved vision. This case demonstrates that an acute occlusion of the ophthalmic artery without external carotid artery collaterals can be tolerated clinically.

Research paper thumbnail of Ruptured distal AICA pseudoaneurysm presenting years after vestibular schwannoma resection and radiation

Case Reports, 2015

Distal anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) pseudoaneurysms are very rare lesions. Although... more Distal anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) pseudoaneurysms are very rare lesions. Although cases have been previously reported, only a few have been reported as a result of vestibular schwannoma (VS) radiation, none have been reported as a result of VS resection, and only one has been reported as treated with parent vessel occlusion (PVO) with n-butyl cyanoacrylate (nBCA). We report a case of a 65-year-old man with a history of right-sided VS surgery and radiation who presented years later with a ruptured pseudoaneurysm of the distal right AICA and was treated with endovascular PVO using nBCA. The aneurysm was completely obliterated and the patient had no worsening of symptoms or neurological exam. The case illustrates a very rare complication of VS surgery and radiation as well as an effective treatment for distal AICA aneurysms.

Research paper thumbnail of Cervical-petrous internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm presenting with otorrhagia treated with endovascular techniques

BMJ case reports, 2014

Cervical-petrous internal carotid artery (CP-ICA) pseudoaneurysms are rare and have different eti... more Cervical-petrous internal carotid artery (CP-ICA) pseudoaneurysms are rare and have different etiologies, presentations, and treatment options. A middle-aged patient with a history of chronic otitis media presented with acute otorrhagia and was found to have a left-sided CP-ICA pseudoaneurysm. The patient was a poor surgical candidate with difficult arterial access. The pseudoaneurysm was treated with stand-alone coiling via a left brachial approach with persistent contrast filling seen only in the aneurysm neck at the end of the procedure. The patient re-presented 12 days later with repeat hemorrhage and rapid enlargement of the neck remnant, and was treated with a covered stent via a transcervical common carotid artery cut-down. A covered stent may provide a more definitive treatment for CP-ICA pseudoaneurysms compared with standalone coiling.

Research paper thumbnail of The finding of alleged tubercle bacilli in the blood

Research paper thumbnail of Primary Intraosseous Cavernous Hemangioma of the Clivus: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Journal of Neurological Surgery Reports, 2013

The patient is an 89-year-old right-handed woman with past medical history significant for rheuma... more The patient is an 89-year-old right-handed woman with past medical history significant for rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, osteoporosis, and hypothyroidism. She presented with 2 days of dysarthric speech, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. She endorsed new constant "pressure" headaches that began 4 weeks prior to presentation that radiated to behind her left eye, ear, and jaw. She denied any previous history of headaches.

Research paper thumbnail of Brain metastasis from uterine serous carcinoma: A case report and review of literature

Gynecologic Oncology Reports, 2015

While endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer with a generally favorable progn... more While endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer with a generally favorable prognosis, the histological subtype of serous carcinoma is more aggressive and fortunately uncommon. Uterine serous carcinoma (USC) accounts for about 10% of cases of endometrial cancer and yet 39% of its deaths ). Brain metastasis from endometrial cancer is also rare, with a rate of 0.6% from a review of over 10,000 patients (Piura and Piura, 2012). This recent review of 35 studies by Piura et al. identified 115 cases of endometrial cancer that metastasized to the brain, of which 4 were USC (Piura and Piura, 2012). A further review of the literature uncovered an additional 4 cases. Here we present a new case from our institution, review the existing literature, and discuss current treatment options.

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis of early angiographic outcome using unique large diameter coils in comparison with standard coils in the embolization of cerebral aneurysms: a retrospective review

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2014

The initial experience with the large diameter Penumbra Coil 400 (PC400) system has been positive... more The initial experience with the large diameter Penumbra Coil 400 (PC400) system has been positive regarding safety, efficacy, improved packing density and cost effectiveness, but follow-up data are limited. This is a single-center retrospective review of 76 aneurysms treated with PC400 coils compared with 301 aneurysms treated with a variety of different bare platinum and bioactively coated coils. Atypical and giant aneurysms were excluded as well as those that had undergone previous treatment. Occlusion classification was determined immediately after the procedure and at short-term follow-up. Compared with controls, in the PC400 group fewer coils were used (3.53 vs 5.44, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05), procedure time was decreased (48 vs 64 min, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05) and packing density was increased (31.7% vs 24.8%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). There were more grade III aneurysms (71.1% vs 38.2%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05) and fewer grade I aneurysms (13.2% vs 30.2%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05) in the PC400 group than in the control group immediately after the procedure. At first follow-up, however, more aneurysms in the PC400 group improved (51.3% vs 28.7%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05) in angiographic grade leading to similar rates of acceptable outcome (grades I or II) at first follow-up (PC400 79.5% vs control 77.2%). The adverse event rate was similar in the two groups. Large diameter PC400 coils can be used to safely treat cerebral aneurysms with fewer coils, decreased procedure time and increased packing density compared with standard coils. The early angiographic outcome is similar to that achieved with standard coils.

Research paper thumbnail of P-033 Aneurysm embolization treatment efficiency: comparing the penumbra coil 400TM system to conventional coils

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2012

Research paper thumbnail of Initial experience with Penumbra Coil 400 versus standard coils in embolization of cerebral aneurysms: a retrospective review

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2012

The Penumbra Coil 400 System (PC 400) is the newly introduced platinum coil system designed speci... more The Penumbra Coil 400 System (PC 400) is the newly introduced platinum coil system designed specifically to enhance filling efficiency by increasing coil diameter. Our goal was to study the packing and treatment advantage of the PC 400&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s unique geometric configuration compared with conventional coils (controls). 16 aneurysms embolized with the PC 400 in 2011 were compared with 79 equally matched aneurysms embolized with conventional coils from 2004 to 2011. Primary outcomes assessed were acute packing density, embolization time, and the number of coils required for aneurysm occlusion. Aneurysm embolization with the PC 400 achieved a higher packing density (36.8% vs 28.1%; p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.005) and with fewer coils (an average of 3.9 vs 6.1 coils per aneurysm; p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). In addition, the total procedural time for the subjects treated with the PC 400 was significantly less (45.7 vs 64.1 min; p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). There were no procedural complications associated with the PC 400. Compared with conventional coils, the PC 400 is more efficient in the embolization of cerebral aneurysms, achieving greater packing density with fewer coils and less time without compromising safety.

Research paper thumbnail of An update to the Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification of intracranial aneurysms treated with coil embolization

Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery, 2014

The Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification (RROC) is the standard for evaluating coiled aneurysms (... more The Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification (RROC) is the standard for evaluating coiled aneurysms (Class I: complete obliteration; Class II: residual neck; Class III: residual aneurysm), but not all Class III aneurysms behave the same over time. This is a retrospective review of 370 patients with 390 intracranial aneurysms treated with coil embolization. A Modified Raymond-Roy Classification (MRRC), in which Class IIIa designates contrast within the coil interstices and Class IIIb contrast along the aneurysm wall, was applied retrospectively. Class IIIa aneurysms were more likely to improve to Class I or II than Class IIIb aneurysms (83.34% vs 14.89%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001) and were also more likely than Class II to improve to Class I (52.78% vs 16.90%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001). Class IIIb aneurysms were more likely to remain incompletely occluded than Class IIIa aneurysms (85.11% vs 16.67%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001). Class IIIb aneurysms were larger with wider necks while Class IIIa aneurysms had higher packing density. Class IIIb aneurysms had a higher retreatment rate (33.87% vs 6.54%, p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001) and a trend toward higher subsequent rupture rate (3.23% vs 0.00%, p=0.068). We propose the MRRC to further differentiate Class III aneurysms into those likely to progress to complete occlusion and those likely to remain incompletely occluded or to worsen. The MRRC has the potential to expand the definition of adequate coil embolization, possibly decrease procedural risk, and help endovascular neurosurgeons predict which patients need closer angiographic follow-up. These findings need to be validated in a prospective study with independent blinded angiographic grading.

Research paper thumbnail of Bare Platinum vs Matrix Detachable Coils for the Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms: A Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis and Review of the Literature

Neurosurgery, 2011

BACKGROUND: Despite increasing acceptance of endovascular coiling for treating intracranial aneur... more BACKGROUND: Despite increasing acceptance of endovascular coiling for treating intracranial aneurysms, incomplete occlusion remains a limitation. Attempts to reduce recanalization have prompted creation of polyglycolic/polylactic acid-coated (Matrix) coils shown to improve neointima formation; however, previous publications demonstrate conflicting results regarding their efficacy. Few studies account for factors influencing recurrence, and only 4 studies include bare platinum (BP) coil control groups. OBJECTIVE: To compare initial and short-and mid-term occlusion as well as retreatment rates using Matrix compared with BP coils. METHODS: Retrospective review of patients undergoing coiling of cerebral aneurysms from 2001 to 2005 was performed. Analysis included a multivariate logistic regression model designed to detect a 35% absolute difference in initial occlusion between coil treatment groups with 80% power. RESULTS: Complete initial occlusion was achieved in 64% of BP (n = 45) and 63% of Matrix (n = 56) cases (P = 1.0). Follow-up occlusion rates in the short term and mid term were 52% and 60%, respectively, for BP cases and 42% and 67%, respectively, for Matrix cases (P = .24 and P = .38, respectively). After adjusting for size, morphology, volumetric packing density, location, rupture, and balloon remodeling, no difference in initial and subsequent occlusion or retreatment rates for BP coils versus Matrix coils was appreciated. CONCLUSION: After controlling for factors influencing recanalization, this investigation failed to show a significant difference between coil groups.

Research paper thumbnail of Single-center Comparison of Bioactive versus Bare Platinum Coils for the Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms