Towards the Intravascular Delivery of 3D-printed Leached SMP for Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysm

Intracranial aneurysms (ICAs) pose a serious clinical risk due to their potential for rupture, leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage, high morbidity, and mortality. This study aims to develop a proof-of-concept device for the targeted delivery of shape memory polymers (SMPs)-based embolic devices to improve aneurysm occlusion and reduce recurrence.

A novel system was designed combining a radial compression fixture and an electronic device for Joule heating and electrolytic detachment (ED). Three SMP geometries (5, 6.5 mm spherical, and patient-specific) were evaluated for the shape recovery and thermal responses. In-vitro testing was performed using 6.5 mm and patient-specific geometries in PDMS aneurysm phantoms under physiological relevant conditions utilizing ovine blood.

Controlled activation of the SMPs at currents of 400 mA achieved reproducible shape recovery ratios (SRRs) up to 75.71%, with detachment occurring at < 100 mA. Surface temperatures remained below 45 °C. In-vitro deployment resulted in aneurysm sac occlusion of 90.32% (patient-specific) and 94.12% (idealized), without evidence of thermal damage or gas accumulation. Flow visualization confirmed reduced bubble entry into the aneurysm sac post-deployment.

This study demonstrates the feasibility of a targeted delivery system for patient-specific ICA treatment using SMPs. While further refinement and in-vivo validation are required, these findings highlight the potential of SMPs as durable embolization devices capable of conforming to complex aneurysm geometries and providing more effective occlusion compared to current methods.