Levitt, Michael R.

Abstract Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting (CAS) has been shown to be equally effective as carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for carotid stenosis in both symptomatic and asymptomatic disease. 1 In patients who are considered high risk for endarterectomy, CAS is safe and effective. 2 While this is a common procedure, proper technique is crucial to ensure that the procedure is safe with minimal risk of stroke. This patient consented to treatment. The following is a video detailing the CAS procedure in a 77-yr-old male with a symptomatic 65% carotid stenosis (by NASCET criteria 3 ) in a patient with prior CEA.

Abstract Since the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial, 1 endovascular treatment has been the favored treatment for appropriate ruptured intracranial aneurysms. While our endovascular technology has advanced to allow us to treat the majority of intracranial aneurysms, simple coil embolization is still the most common modality. This video demonstrates the fundamentals of aneurysm catheterization and coiling for safe treatment. In addition, the set-up and devices are detailed. This video is to add to the library of basic techniques that will aid a large number of practitioners. This patient consented to endovascular treatment. The video demonstrates endovascular coil embolization of a posterior communicating artery aneurysm in a 76-yr-old female who presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Image of biplane suite in video used courtesy of Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc. Illustration at 5:12 reprinted from Yasargil MG, et al, Microneurosurgery IV B , p. 9, Thieme, New York, 1995.

Abstract Acute carotid terminus occlusion (CTO) is responsible for up to 5% of acute ischemic strokes secondary to emergent large vessel occlusion (ELVO) and up to 20% of acute internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusions. 1 The term “CTO” has also been used to describe occlusions in the supra-clinoid segment or at the bifurcation of the ICA. Compared to other ELVOs, patients with CTO present with higher stroke severity and larger infarct volume, likely to be a result of disruption of direct Circle of Willis collaterals across the anterior communicating artery (AComA) and posterior communicating artery (PComA). 2,3 Similary, CTO is usually associated with worse prognosis compared to other ELVOs in general. With regard to response to treatment, previous studies have reported significantly lower recanalization rates with intravenous alteplase with CTO compared to M1 segment occlusion. With regard to the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy, prior reports provide conflicting results with some reporting lower successful recanalization rates with CTO compared to M1 occlusion, and others reporting similar results. In our experience, we have found that successful recanalization of CTO can be achieved with a similar approach to M1 occlusions utilizing a direct aspiration first pass technique (ADAPT). 3,4 Herein, we present a case of CTO for which we performed mechanical thrombectomy using ADAPT. This procedure was an emergent standard of care procedure for which a consent was not required and so not obtained.

Abstract Transfemoral access has long been the main access site for cerebral angiography and neurointerventional procedures. Radial access is accepted as an alternative to the traditional transfemoral approach. Ulnar access may be undertaken if the radial artery is occluded or small caliber, or when radial artery preservation is needed. The safety and feasibility of ulnar access for neuroangiographic procedures has been demonstrated. 1-3 In this operative video, we demonstrate ulnar artery access in a patient in whom radial artery preservation was desired. We further elaborate on the technical nuances of this access. This nontraditional access site offers the same advantages as radial access, avoiding the need to switch to femoral artery access. A preoperative Allen's test is not necessary. Ultrasound imaging is used to aid in the identification and successful puncture of the ulnar artery. A medial to lateral approach for ulnar artery puncture is advised to avoid injury to the ulnar nerve. Careful application of wrist closure bands avoids hematoma accumulation. The patient gave informed consent for the procedure and video recording. Institutional review board approval was deemed unnecessary. Video. © University at Buffalo, May 2021. Used with permission.

Background and Purpose: Given the benign natural history of intracranial low-grade dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs), their routine treatment remains controversial. The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of low-grade dAVF treatment to conservative management. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of dAVF patients derived from 12 institutions participating in the Consortium for Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Outcomes Research (CONDOR). Patients with low-grade (Borden I) dAVFs were included and categorized into treatment and observation cohorts. Primary outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at final follow-up. Secondary outcomes were rates of excellent (mRS 0-1) and good (mRS 0-2) functional outcomes, symptomatic improvement, mortality, and obliteration at final follow-up. Results: The treatment and observation cohorts comprised 230 and 112 patients, respectively. At last follow up, no difference in primary or secondary outcomes was observed between the two cohorts, with the exception of obliteration, which was higher in the treatment cohort (79.3% vs. 28.2%, p<0.001; Table 1). The two cohorts were then matched in a 1:1 ratio, resulting in 64 patients in each matched cohort. No difference in primary or secondary outcomes was observed between the matched cohorts, with the exception of obliteration, which was higher in the matched treatment cohort (75.4% vs. 28.6%, p<0.001; Table 2). Subgroup analysis of symptomatic patients demonstrated higher obliteration rate in the treatment cohort, but no difference in primary or other secondary outcomes were found. Conclusions: Low-grade dAVF treatment was not associated with increased functional disability compared to conservative management. Although higher obliteration rates were achieved in the treatment cohort, rates of symptomatic improvement were similar between the two cohorts. This study did not provide evidence to support the routine treatment of low-grade dAVFs.

Abstract In-stent stenosis has a reported prevalence of 14% to 19% at 1-yr follow-up after carotid stenting and is associated with an increased risk of acute ischemic stroke. 1,2 Risk factors include female sex, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Cutting balloon angioplasty is a safe and effective treatment modality for the treatment of carotid in-stent stenosis, and alternative treatment options include observation with medical management and placement of another stent. 3,4 The authors present the case of a 61-yr-old man with carotid in-stent restenosis and progressive worsening on serial imaging with ultrasound. The patient had a history of carotid stenting for symptomatic stenosis 6 mo prior and was maintained on aspirin and clopidogrel. In light of the progressive worsening, the in-stent stenosis was confirmed on computed tomography (CT) angiogram. The options were discussed with the patient and he consented for treatment with cutting balloon angioplasty. Final angiogram showed improvement of the luminal diameter with a residual stenosis of 15%. The patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged home on postoperative day 1. Follow-up ultrasound demonstrated moderate improvement in peak systolic velocities, and the plan is to continue observation with a clinical follow-up and repeat carotid Dopplers at 3 mo.

Abstract Embolic protection devices (EPDs) have become a standard of care during internal carotid artery revascularization. 1,2 This video is about a 57-yr-old-male who presented with a wake-up stroke with a left hemispheric syndrome. Head computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed tandem occlusions of the proximal left internal carotid artery (ICA) and of the distal left middle cerebral artery (MCA) with an ASPECT (Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score) score of 6. The patient underwent a cerebral angiogram and was treated with balloon angioplasty with a distal EPD and mechanical thrombectomy. The EPD became occluded with thrombus from the ICA and was retrieved through a 6-Fr Sofia (MicroVention) under continuous aspiration. Successful revascularization of the proximal ICA and distal MCA was achieved. No procedure-related complications occurred, and the patient's neurological exam improved. Tandem occlusions can occur in up to 15% of strokes. The optimal treatment can be controversial, but mechanical thrombectomy and ICA revascularization with a distal EPD appear to be safe and effective in selected patients. 3 Consent was obtained for the procedure and for the video production.

Abstract Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is a common cause of stroke. Antiplatelet therapy is the mainstay for symptomatic ICAD treatment. Endovascular management with submaximal angioplasty and/or intracranial stenting is reserved for patients with repeated ischemic events despite optimal medical therapy. We demonstrate intracranial angioplasty and stenting technique, technique indications, and sizing of stent and target vessel diameter. Stenting and angioplasty have been described in the Stenting and Aggressive Medical Management for Preventing Recurrent Stroke in Intracranial Stenosis and Wingspan Stent System Post Market Surveillance trials. 1,2 Submaximal angioplasty has also been described. 3 This patient, who had been on dual antiplatelet therapy for several months, initially presented with occlusion of the left middle cerebral artery M2 inferior division and underwent mechanical thrombectomy with successful reperfusion. Postoperatively, the patient's symptoms did not improve. Medical management was optimized with heparin infusion. However, repeat stroke study demonstrated M2 inferior division reocclusion. A decision was made to proceed with intracranial angioplasty and stenting. P2Y12 levels were therapeutic. Under moderate conscious sedation, submaximal angioplasty of up to 80% of the normal M2 caliber was attempted. However, we observed persistent high-grade stenosis of the M2 inferior division. The major risk of crossing the lesion for angioplasty is vessel perforation. To safely perform this maneuver, we used a J-configured Synchro-2 microwire (Stryker). Because of the patient's recent thrombectomy, we also had prior tactile feedback about how much resistance was encountered while crossing the occlusion. We then deployed a balloon-mounted intracranial stent for optimal radial force across the stenotic area to restore perfusion. Postoperative computed tomography perfusion showed resolution of the previously noticed perfusion deficit. The patient gave informed consent for the procedures and video recording. Institutional review board approval was deemed unnecessary. Video. ©University at Buffalo Neurosurgery, September 2020. With permission.

Abstract Vascular access for cerebral angiography has traditionally been performed via the common femoral artery. It is crucial to obtain safe access to prevent complications that could lead to limb ischemia, groin hematoma, or retroperitoneal hematoma. This is especially true in neurointervention as many patients are anticoagulated or have received intravenous thrombolytics prior to their intervention. Special attention to anatomic landmarks, both grossly and radiographically, can help to assure safe access. The patient consented for this procedure. This video details rapid but safe femoral artery access in a patient undergoing emergent thrombectomy.

Abstract Management options for carotid stenosis include medical management, carotid endarterectomy, carotid stenting with distal filter protection, or stenting with either flow arrest or flow reversal techniques. 1 Flow reversal with transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) technique represents a hybrid approach with surgical access to the common carotid for endovascular placement of a stent in the internal carotid artery. This direct access to the carotid artery avoids navigating the challenging anatomy of the aortic arch with endovascular devices. 2 Compared to transfemoral stenting, TCAR possesses lower risk of transient ischemic attack and stroke, and compared to carotid endarterectomy, there is less risk of cranial neuropathy. 3,4 We present the case of an 87-yr-old man with recurrent severe stenosis (85%) of the right internal carotid artery. The patient had a remote history of bilateral endarterectomies for asymptomatic stenosis and was found with recurrence and progression of right internal carotid artery stenosis. Options were discussed and decision was made to proceed with TCAR after he consented for the procedure. The patient tolerated the procedure well with satisfactory revascularization. Exam remained unremarkable prior to discharge on postoperative day 1 and during follow-up at 1 mo. Patient consented to the publication of their image.