Studies Support Use of Neuroendovascular Coil over Microsurgical Clipping in Treatment of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

Neuroendovascular Coil


 The neuroendovascular coil is used in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms of different size, shape, and location. The size of coils range in size from about twice the width of a human hair to less than one hair's width. In the process, called as endovascular embolization, blood flow into an aneurysm (a weakened area in the wall of an artery) is blocked. Aneurysm ruptures are known to cause life-threatening bleeding and brain damage. The prevalence of unruptured intracranial aneurysms among adults in Central European countries is estimated at 3.2%. In Germany, around 2 million people suffer from the condition.

Neuroendovascular coil aids in the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Other treatment options include, balloon-assisted coiling, stent-supported coiling, and the use of flow diverters. Of these, endovascular treatment and microsurgical clipping are widely used in the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Several studies have supported the use of simple coiling over microsurgical clipping in the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms. No significant difference has also been found in morbidity and mortality of the two modalities. Moreover, coiling has been found to be effective in older patients and in patients that suffer from other conditions while seeking treatment for brain aneurysms.

Endovascular treatment involves use of a catheter that is passed through the groin up into the artery containing the aneurysm. Neuroendovascular coils made of platinum coils are later released to induce clotting. This in turn prevents blood flow into an aneurysm. During the process, X-ray is used to guide the catheter into the artery. T

There are several risk of using neuroendovascular coils. These risks include, allergic reactions, stroke or transient ischemic attack, loss of consciousness, and paralysis. Use of microwires in the development of coils is expected to mitigate some of the above mentioned risks.

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