Placement of mechanically detachable spiral coils in the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Work in progress.

PURPOSE

To determine the usefulness of mechanically detachable spiral tungsten coils (MDSs) in the endovascular, endosaccular occlusion of intracranial aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anterior communicating artery aneurysms shown at angiography in two patients and a basilar tip aneurysm shown in one patient were treated with MDSs.

RESULTS

In the basilar artery aneurysm, eight coils were delivered. Two additional coils were placed at 3 months because of filling of the residual aneurysm neck. Angiography at 1 year showed no recanalization. The smaller aneurysm in the anterior communicating artery was totally occluded by a single coil. Angiography at 6 months showed no recanalization. The other aneurysm was occluded by two coils, with a small amount of residual filling. A third coil was withdrawn before detachment. The patient had aspiration pneumonia and electrolyte imbalance, but he was in stable condition 3 weeks later and was discharged.

CONCLUSION

The pliable, soft, retrievable MDS system provides instantaneous release of a spiral coil.