Flat detector CT and its applications in the endovascular treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms-A literature review.

Flat detector CT (FDCT) provides cross sectional imaging within an angiographic suite and is increasingly gaining popularity in various areas of interventional radiology, as an alternative imaging modality. Its relatively high spatial resolution improves visualization of intraluminal devices such as intracranial stents or flow-diverters. Device deployment and positioning, in relation to the parent vessel and surrounding structures, are easily assessible with FDCT. Furthermore, with contrast agent administration, it expands the diagnostic capabilities of this new imaging tool. However, beam-hardening artifacts is a major limitation in some cases. The examination can be performed both during the endovascular procedure and for pre- and post-treatment imaging. Intravenous contrast agent injection reduces the risk of complications, making it possible to perform this examination in the outpatient settings. The aim of this paper is to present an overview of published studies reporting experience with FDCT in the field of endovascular neurosurgery and in particular, FDCT's contribution in treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms. The authors have focused specifically on stent-assisted coiling and flow-diverter implantation, since obtaining proper parent vessel wall apposition of these devices is essential for short- and long-term procedural outcomes.