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Retrieval of distorted pipeline embolic device using snare-loop
Bartley Mitchell1, Liang-Der Jou2, Michel Mawad3
1Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1709 Dryden, Suite 750, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Background:
Flow-diverter stents are increasingly being used in the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Because of this increased usage, the occurrence of stent malpositioning, intra-arterial distortion, or migration will likely increase as well.
Methods:
We describe the conformational twisting and deformity of a pipeline embolic device (PED) stent (Covidien, EV3) within the carotid artery during stent placement, with the subsequent immediate removal of the stent by using an endovascular snare-loop to successfully remove the device.
Results:
The PED can be successfully removed using a snare-loop device when indicated. In this case, following removal of the initial PED, the aneurysms can be successfully treated with the placement of a second PED.
Conclusion:
It is critical to have a contingency plan for the removal of malpositioned or otherwise deformed stents that could potentially represent significant sources of iatrogenic stroke.
