Basics of the Flow Diverter: Development and Principles

The flow diverter enables complete reconstruction of the diseased segment of an intracranial artery harboring a large or giant aneurysm. The introduction of flow diverters induced a major paradigm shift in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. The two main mechanisms of action for flow diverters are: (1) disruption of the blood flow from the parent artery into the aneurysm which leads to thrombosis and scarring of the aneurysm, and (2) serving as a scaffold over which the native tissue, such as neo-intima and endothelium, can grow. Continuous improvements in flow diverter technology and indisputable clinical results have led to broader acceptance for the use of flow diverters. In-depth understanding on the concept of flow diverter treatment is imperative for those involved in the modern comprehensive management of intracranial aneurysms.