Using Onyx in endovascular embolization of internal carotid artery large or giant aneurysms

Background and purpose: Internal carotid artery (ICA) large or giant saccular aneurysms is challenging for endovascular coil embolization and surgical clipping with a high recanalization and rebleeding rate. We report our results using Onyx in the endovascular treatment of ICA large or giant saccular aneurysms. Methods: During 2008-2010, 5 patients with 5 large or giant saccular aneurysms in ICA were treated with a liquid embolic agent (Onyx; Micro Therapeutics, Irvine, CA). One aneurysm was small (<10 mm), 2 were large (>= 10mm, <25mm) and 2 were giant saccular aneurysms (>= 25 mm). Of 3 female and 2 male patients, 3 were incidental and 2 had bleeding. Selective embolization was performed with Onyx alone or a combination with coils. Clinical and anatomic outcomes were assessed with the Modified Glasgow Outcome Scale and follow-up angiography was performed at 4-21 months (mean 12.2 months). Results: Complete aneurysm occlusion was obtained in all of the aneurysms on immediate control angiogram. There was not any procedure-related complication. No recanalization was observed at the follow-up periods. There were 2 ICA occlusions in giant ICA aneurysms. The 5 patients were all clinically asymptomatic at follow-up. Conclusion: Endovascular embolization with Onyx is a useful treatment for ICA large or giant aneurysms, which is unsuitable for coiling or surgical treatment. (c) 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.