Use of a new double-lumen balloon catheter for single-catheter balloon-assisted coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms: technical note.

Abstract

The prevalence of intracranial aneurysms is approximately 2% with an annual rupture rate of 0.7%. We describe our initial feasibility experience using a new double-lumen balloon catheter for single-catheter balloon-assisted coil embolization of wide-neck intracranial aneurysms. Two patients with large wide-neck intracranial aneurysms were referred for endovascular therapy. Endovascular treatment in the form of coil embolization alone was not feasible given the angioarchitecture of the aneurysms. Balloon-assisted coil embolization was planned. The patients underwent balloon-assisted coil embolization using the Ascent double-lumen balloon catheter (Micrus, San Jose, California). The balloon portion of the catheter was placed into the proximal neck of the aneurysm. The balloon was inflated and coil embolization performed through the inner lumen of the catheter. There were no procedural complications. Both aneurysms were successfully coiled by using the Ascent balloon occlusion catheter. The single-catheter balloon-assisted coil embolization technique can be performed safely and effectively with the Ascent double-lumen balloon catheter.