Controversies and challenges of coil embolization for intracranial aneurysm in a continuous-flow LVAD implanted...

Continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) technology has rapidly developed to support the failing heart refractory to standard medical treatments. Although the expected prognosis has improved dramatically, ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes are possible complications and the leading causes of death in the CF-LVAD population.

We encountered a case of an unruptured large internal carotid aneurysm in a patient with a CF-LVAD. Following a detailed discussion of his expected prognosis, the risk of aneurysm rupture, and the inherited risk of aneurysm treatment, coil embolization was performed without adverse events. The patient remained recurrence-free for 2-year postoperatively.

This report illustrates the feasibility of coil embolization in a CF-LVAD recipient and emphasizes the necessity of vigilant consideration of whether to intervene in an intracranial aneurysm after CF-LVAD implantation. We confronted several challenges during the treatment: optimal endovascular technique, management of antithrombotic drugs, safe arterial access, desirable perioperative imaging modalities, and prevention of ischemic complications. This study aimed to share this experience.