A new minimally invasive treatment option to repair brain aneurysms is available to eligible patients at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
The FDA recently approved the use of the WEB device, which looks like a tiny mesh basket, to seal off the aneurysm to prevent bleeding. This treatment option may be preferable for certain types of aneurysms instead of another endovascular repair option using platinum coils with a stent or the open surgical clipping.
“The availability of this option has the potential to revolutionize the management of aneurysms throughout the country,” said Dr. Vinodh Doss, an interventional neurologist with NHRMC Physician Group – Neurology. Dr. Doss successfully performed the first aneurysm repair using the WEB device in North Carolina. “We are pleased to offer this latest advancement to ensure we are providing the right care to patients when they need it.”
An aneurysm is a weak area in the artery wall that bulges out and can burst, spilling blood into the brain. Minimally invasive endovascular techniques involve accessing the aneurysm through blood vessels instead of opening the skull to clip to the aneurysm.
Patients who have suffered a ruptured aneurysm may not be appropriate for the coils with stent technique because it can require blood thinners following the procedure. Because the WEB device does not require the patient to be on blood thinners, it offers a minimally invasive repair option for some patients with a ruptured aneurysm who otherwise would have only been offered a clipping procedure. Meanwhile, the WEB device can also offer a minimally invasive option for some patients who are not good candidates for blood thinners because of specific risk factors.
The latest technique also offers a shorter procedure time because it involves placing a single device instead of multiple coils and one to two stents to hold them in place.
NHRMC is the only hospital in southeastern North Carolina to offer 24/7 neuro-interventional coverage to treat patients suffering cerebrovascular emergencies, including stroke and aneurysms.