Abstract
Background: Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting (PTAS) is a surgical intervention used for intracranial arterial stenosis. However, stents designed for intracranial artery stenosis are characterized by relatively rigid delivery systems, and safe and reliable procedural techniques have yet to be established. Since 2021, advanced curvature-compatible intermediate catheters (IMCs) have been introduced to address the tortuous vascular anatomy, with the expectation of enhancing safety and treatment outcomes. This study examined the effects of advanced curvature-compatible IMCs on the PTAS.
Methods: This study included 22 consecutive patients who underwent PTAS of the cerebral arteries between January 2021 and June 2023. The cases are compared based on the use of conventional IMCs versus advanced curvature-compatible IMCs.
Results: The advanced curvature-compatible IMC group consisted of 15 patients, whereas the conventional IMC group included 7 patients. Intradural lesions in the anterior circulation were observed exclusively in the advanced curvature-compatible IMC group. The advanced curvature-compatible IMC group was able to navigate significantly closer to the stenotic lesions. All the procedures were successfully completed without intraoperative complications.
Conclusion: Advanced curvature-compatible IMCs enabled navigation closer to the target lesions than conventional IMCs. The presence of a guiding system, including an IMC, near the target lesions is expected to enhance maneuverability and improve safety. Additionally, the enhanced deliverability of advanced IMCs allows for successful stenting of lesions affected by tortuosity, indicating a potential increase in procedural completion rates.
