Interventional coil embolization for micro-intracranial aneurysms and the midterm follow-up

Objective: To discuss the coiling embolization techniques for micro-intracranial aneurysm, and evaluate the clinical efficacy and midterm follow-up. Methods: From 2004 to 2007, 19 patients with 20 ruptured micro-intracranial aneurysms underwent coil embolization in our institution, including simple coil embolization in 9 aneurysms, stent-assisted coil embolization in 9 and balloon-assisted coil embolization in 2. Results: All aneurysms were successfully embolized with coils. Angiography immediately after coiling procedure revealed complete occlusion in 5 aneurysms, neck remnant in 9 and residual aneurysm in 6. In 3 cases, coil can't be completely packed into the aneurysm and was left in the parent artery. Coil/stent displacement and acute thrombosis were not found. Over 1-year follow-up, aneurysm re-rupture was not found. Seventeen patients recovered without neurologic complications, the other two consisted of 1 with mild hemiparalysis and 1 with oculomotor paresis. The follow-up angiography 1 year after coiling showed complete occlusion in 15 aneurysms, neck remnant in 4 and residual aneurysm enlargement in 1. Conclusion: Coil embolization for ruptured micro-intracranial anerysm is safe and efficient, and selection of suitable coiling technique is the key to treatment. (authors)