Computational flow dynamics of a novel next-generation flow diverter

BACKGROUND: Flow-diverting stents (FDS) have revolutionized the treatment of large, giant, and wide-neck intracranial aneurysms. FDS promote thrombosis and aneurysm occlusion by redirecting blood flow within the parent artery. This method of endovascular therapy has proven efficacious, although leaving room for improvement. This study evaluated computational flow dynamics (CFD) and technical feasibility of the novel Surpass Elite FDS (Elite) in comparison with the Pipeline Embolization Device with Shield Technology (PED-Shield) across seven in vitro aneurysm models. METHODS: Surpass Elite FDS and PED-Shield were assessed primarily with three CFD metrics to quantify flow diversion: inflow rate reduction, impact zone reduction, and turnover time. Seven patient-specific aneurysm models were utilized. These included one basilar tip, one vertebral artery, two middle cerebral artery, and three internal carotid artery aneurysms. Further evaluation of pore densities and velocity profiles was performed to create a robust comparison summary. RESULTS: Surpass Elite FDS demonstrated greater reduction in inflow rate and impact zone with improved turnover time in all models. Elite additionally displayed higher pore densities at nearly all proximal (inlet), aneurysm, and distal (outlet) points across the aneurysm models. CONCLUSIONS: The next-generation Surpass Elite established better CFD metrics in comparison with PED-Shield in all in vitro aneurysm models evaluated here. Further, Elite demonstrated a higher pore density at nearly all aneurysm points assessed in this study, promoting enhanced flow diversion and thrombosis in the aneurysm sac. Considering these findings, Elite has strong potential to improve on the occlusion rates of PED-Shield.