Retained microcatheter after onyx embolization of intracranial arteriovenous malformation

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Vascular Neurology

Background:

• Endovascular embolization is a primary treatment for intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).
• The use of Onyx as an embolic agent is common in AVM procedures.
• Minimizing procedural complications is crucial for patient outcomes.

Observation:

• Two cases of retained microcatheters were identified following Onyx embolization for intracranial AVMs.
• Microcatheter retention occurred despite standard embolization techniques.
• These incidents highlight a potential, albeit rare, complication associated with the procedure.

Findings:

• Retained microcatheters represent a significant technical challenge and potential source of morbidity.
• The specific mechanism leading to retention in these cases warrants further investigation.
• Successful retrieval or management strategies for retained devices are critical.

Implications:

• Clinicians should maintain heightened awareness of potential microcatheter retention during AVM embolization.
• Further research into preventative measures and management protocols for retained microcatheters is needed.
• This complication may influence the choice of embolic agents or procedural techniques in complex AVM cases.