Abciximab treatment modalities for thromboembolic events related to aneurysm coiling

Thromboembolic complications are the most common cause of periprocedural morbidity associated with the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms with detachable coils.

To estimate the safety and efficacy of using combined intra-arterial and intravenous abciximab to treat thrombi complicating endovascular cerebral aneurysm coil embolization.

In a retrospective analysis of 390 aneurysmal coiling procedures, we identified 39 patients (10.0%) with thromboembolic events related to the procedure. As the first line of treatment in 23 of these patients, abciximab was administered intra-arterially as a bolus followed by intravenous infusion over a 12-hour period. Eleven of the 23 patients were treated for ruptured aneurysms, 9 for unruptured aneurysms, and 3 for aneurysmal recanalization. Flow restoration and neurological outcome were evaluated.

Amelioration as measured by the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction flow grade score was achieved in 17 of 23 patients (73.9%), and no change was observed in 6 of 23 patients (26.1%). Complete recanalization was achieved in 13 patients (56.5%). A greater response to abciximab was noted for thrombi at the coil-parent artery interface, and a lesser response was noted for distal thrombi. No hemorrhagic complications were noted for any of the patients, whereas 11 patients (47.8%) showed ischemic lesions. A modified Rankin Scale score of 2 or less was achieved in 17 of 23 patients (73.9%), whereas 6 of 23 patients (26.1%) had a modified Rankin Scale score of more than 2.

Combined intra-arterial/intravenous administration of abciximab is safe and effective for treating thromboembolic complications that occur during aneurysmal coil embolization with no hemorrhagic complications.