Balloon inflation predicts recanalization of intracranial aneurysms treated with coiling alone

Abstract

Background

Endovascular coil embolization is a common treatment for intracranial aneurysms, but aneurysm recanalization remains a significant problem that may necessitate retreatment. This study aimed to identify patient, aneurysm, and procedural factors associated with recanalization in aneurysms treated exclusively with coil embolization.

Methods

This single center retrospective study assessed intracranial aneurysms treated with coiling-only between 2017 and 2022. Follow-up imaging was reviewed for recanalization with occlusion status graded via a modified Raymond–Roy classification. Univariate analysis assessed the association of clinical, morphological, and procedural factors with clinical complication, aneurysm occlusion, and recanalization status. Stepwise multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of aneurysm recanalization.

Results

Of 163 initially treated aneurysms, 142 were analyzed in complete case analysis for clinical outcomes. Complications occurred in 8 patients and were associated with larger aneurysm neck sizes (3.83 mm vs. 2.92 mm, p = 0.024), increased incidence of coil herniation (63% vs. 10%, p = 0.001), and greater number of coils used per aneurysm (7.13 coils vs. 4.64 coils, p = 0.028). Follow-up angiography in 122 aneurysms showed adequate occlusion in 116 (95.1%) and recanalization in 11.5%. Recanalization was more frequent in aneurysms that had larger initial volumes and in those without balloon inflation during coil deployment (both p < 0.05). On multivariable analysis, balloon inflation during coil deployment was the only independent predictor of aneurysm recanalization (OR 0.18; 95% CI 0.05–0.69; p = 0.009).

Discussion

In this single-center cohort of coiling-only treated aneurysms, the use of the balloon remodeling technique was strongly associated with durable aneurysm occlusion, reducing the odds of aneurysm recanalization. These findings support the routine use of balloon assistance in wide-neck and large aneurysms to achieve complete, stable occlusion and reduce the need for retreatment.