Initial application of dual Willis covered stent in treating carotid fusiform aneurysms in canine models

Objective To establish experimental model of fusiform aneurysm in canine,and to evaluate dual Willis covered stent implantation in treating fusiform aneurysms.Methods An external jugular vein graft was sutured with the common carotid artery(CCA) to create the fusiform aneurysm model.After at least 4 weeks,two Willis covered stents were implanted in a telescopic fashion.Follow-up with angiography was conducted at 2 weeks,one and 3 months after the treatment,and the pathological examination of the grafts was made at one and 3 months.The animals were sacrificed at 1 or 3 months after the treatment,and the stents were collected for pathological examination.Results A total of eight fusiform aneurysms were created in four canines,and 16 covered stents were successfully implanted.Neither technique-related nor device-related complications occurred.The follow-up angiographic findings showed that six fusiform aneurysms were completely occluded and a minimal endoleak occurred in two fusiform aneurysms.Histological examination revealed endothelialization progress,and all aneurysm sacs were filled with thrombi.Conclusion The fusiform aneurysm model created by suturing vein graft with CCA might imitate its clinical features.DualWillis covered stents implantation is an effective treatment for carotid fusiform aneurysm in canine.