Abciximab Treatment Modalities for Thromboembolic Events Related to Aneurysm Coiling

BACKGROUND: Thromboembolic complications are the most common cause of periprocedural morbidity associated with the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms with detachable coils. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the safety and efficacy of using combined intra-arterial and intravenous abciximab to treat thrombi complicating endovascular cerebral aneurysm coil embolization. METHODS: In a retrospective analysis of 390 aneurysmal coiling procedures, we identified 39 patients (10.0%) with thromboembolic events related to the procedure. As the first line of treatment in 23 of these patients, abciximab was administered intra-arterially as a bolus followed by intravenous infusion over a 12-hour period. Eleven of the 23 patients were treated for ruptured aneurysms, 9 for unruptured aneurysms, and 3 for aneurysmal recanalization. Flow restoration and neurological outcome were evaluated. RESULTS: Amelioration as measured by the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction flow grade score was achieved in 17 of 23 patients (73.9%), and no change was observed in 6 of 23 patients (26.1%). Complete recanalization was achieved in 13 patients (56.5%). A greater response to abciximab was noted for thrombi at the coil-parent artery interface, and a lesser response was noted for distal thrombi. No hemorrhagic complications were noted for any of the patients, whereas 11 patients (47.8%) showed ischemic lesions. A modified Rankin Scale score of 2 or less was achieved in 17 of 23 patients (73.9%), whereas 6 of 23 patients (26.1%) had a modified Rankin Scale score of more than 2. CONCLUSION: Combined intra-arterial/intravenous administration of abciximab is safe and effective for treating thromboembolic complications that occur during aneurysmal coil embolization with no hemorrhagic complications.