Microsurgical venous pouch arterial-bifurcation aneurysms in the rabbit model: technical aspects

For ruptured human cerebral aneurysms endovascular embolization has become an equivalent alternative to aneurysm clipping.(1) However, large clinical trials have shown disappointing long-term results with unacceptable high rates of aneurysm recanalization and delayed aneurysm rupture.(2) To overcome these problems, animal experimental studies are crucial for the development of better endovascular devices.(3-5) Several animal models in rats, rabbits, canines and swine are available.(6-8) Comparisons of the different animal models showed the superiority of the rabbit model with regard to hemodynamics and comparability of the coagulation system and cost-effectiveness.(9-11) The venous pouch arterial bifurcation model in rabbits is formed by a venous pouch sutured into an artificially created true bifurcation of both common carotid arteries (CCA). The main advantage of this model are true bifurcational hemodynamics.(12) The major drawbacks are the sofar high microsurgical technical demands and high morbidity and mortality rates of up to 50%.(13) These limitations have resulted in less frequent use of this aneurysm model in the recent years. These shortcomings could be overcome with improved surgical procedures and modified peri- and postoperative analgetic management and anticoagulation.(14-16) Our techniques reported in this paper demonstrate this optimized technique for microsurgical creation of arterial bifurcation aneurysms.