Embolization of large saccular aneurysms with Gianturco coils

In five patients embolization of large saccular aneurysms involving the popliteal artery, common carotid artery, arch of the aorta, and abdominal aorta was performed with custom-designed spring coils. Surgery was attempted before embolization for the aneurysm involving the popliteal artery. The other aneurysms were considered nonresectable due to their critical location. Although maximal packing of the aneurysmal sac was attempted, delayed follow-up angiography revealed displacement of the coils away from the parent vessel as well as further expansion of the residual aneurysmal sac. In these cases complete embolization of the aneurysmal sac was not possible without obstructing the parent artery.