Introduction: There is much speculation in reference to the occurrence and mechanisms of progressive aneurysm occlusion after treatment with bioactive coils. However, to our knowledge, there are no studies documenting the impact on progressive occlusion in aneurysms that are intentionally under-packed.
Methods: A total of 24 experimental side-wall aneurysms were created in canine common carotid arteries. Of these 24, 9 were treated with Guglielmi detachable coils (GDC) and 15 with first-generation Matrix (Matrix1) coils to packing densities of 22% or less. Angiograms were obtained immediately after treatment and again at the time of explant at 2 weeks, 8 weeks, or 12 weeks, and were graded utilizing the Raymond scale. At the time of the final angiography and explant all aneurysms were histologically processed and evaluated.
Results: At the conclusion of initial coiling, near or complete occlusion was achieved in 7 of the 15 aneurysms (47%) treated with Matrix1 coils and in 2 of the 9 (22%) treated with GDC. Of the aneurysms that were incompletely occluded, six of eight (75%) treated with Matrix1 coils and two of seven (29%) treated with GDC showed progressive thrombosis at explant. Histopathological analysis demonstrated that the aneurysms treated with Matrix1 coils had increased fibrocellular tissue and inflammation, with less histological recanalization or vascular spaces, relative to those treated with GDC.
Conclusion: Experimental wide-necked side-wall canine aneurysms suboptimally treated with first-generation Matrix1 coils had a higher incidence of progressive occlusion and on histological analysis showed evidence of more advanced thrombus organization than did those treated with GDC.