Single-center experience with six-month follow-up of FRED Jr® flow diverters for intracranial aneurysms in small arteries

Abstract

Background

The flow-diverter stent (FD) has been proven to be a safe and efficient device in the treatment of large and giant wide-necked proximal internal carotid artery aneurysms.

Purpose

To report the outcomes using Flow Re-Direction Endoluminal Device Junior (Fred Jr) flow diverters in the treatment of aneurysms in or distal to the circle of Willis with parent artery diameter < 2.5 mm.

Material and Methods

All electively treated aneurysms with this FD at our institution between September 2015 and December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Technical issues, immediate and follow-up radiological findings, and clinical outcomes were assessed. Fifteen patients with 15 aneurysms were included in the study.

Results

No technical difficulties or complications were encountered during the FD procedure. No FD-related post-procedural complications or mortality occurred. The patients were discharged with unaltered National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) or modified Ranking Scale (mRS). Complete occlusion was reached in 13/15 aneurysms (87%) as assessed from the most recent radiological follow-up (6–24 months).

Conclusion

Our preliminary results show that the device worked technically well with no complications for aneurysms located on small intracranial arteries. The occlusion rates are comparable to those of other FDs that have been used in small arteries. The device offers a good choice in treating aneurysms that are unmanageable with conventional endovascular techniques or surgery.

Keywords

Aneurysm digital subtraction angiography flow diverter intracranial

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