Packing density and the angiographic results of coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background Endovascular coil embolization (ECE) for intracranial aneurysms has been proven as an effective minimally invasive treatment. However, the aneurysm recanalization after coiling is a serious complication of this technique. Among all the proposed factors associated with recanalization, the impact of packing density (PD) is still controversial. Objective To clarify the role of PD in the aneurysm recanalization following ECE, via conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases, until November 28, 2022, by adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses statement guidelines. Considering the eligibility criteria, all the studies reporting the outcomes of interest were included. Data elements of interest were extracted and analyzed using R software version 4.2.1. Results The pooled analysis of the 17 eligible papers revealed a 29% higher PD of the nonrecanalized aneurysms (ROM = 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.18–1.40, p < 0.001), even after removing outlier studies to reduce heterogeneity. However, the pooled estimates from multivariable regression models within nine included studies showed no significant effect of PD on recanalization odds when incorporated into a multivariable model with other predictors (odds ratio [OR] = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.84–1.02, p = 0.126), even after removing outlier studies. Conclusion The current literature does not support PD as a significant predictor of aneurysm treatment outcomes, especially with adjusting for other variables. This finding necessitates further prospective multicenter studies with a larger sample size to overcome the current methodological shortcomings.

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“…While there is a report of a close relationship between packing density and recanalization rate [28], other studies have reported that the presence or absence of complete embolization, rather than packing density per se, is a signi cant risk factor for recanalization and that packing density is not signi cantly correlated with recanalization [29,30]. In the present study, packing density was not included as a confounding factor because accurate volume embolization rates were not available for several cases.…”

The safety and efficacy of double microcatheter technique in small and tiny ruptured aneurysms: A single center study

“…Previous studies have suggested an association between packing density and recanalization [ 7 , 19 ]. However, more recent studies have presented conflicting results [ 8 , 10 ], leading to a controversial understanding of this relationship. Consistent with previous literature, a statistically significant correlation has been observed between smaller aneurysm size and higher packing density [ 19 ].…”