The Neck-Crossing Technique Using the Low-Profile Distal Access Catheter in Flow Diverter Placement for Dissecting Posterior Cerebral Artery Aneurysm: A Case Report

We report a case in which a novel distal access catheter proved successful in the placement of a flow diverter for a challenging distal cerebral artery lesion. We discuss the advantages and pitfalls of this technique and considerations for its use. A 74-year-old female presented with intermittent headaches, and was diagnosed with a dissecting aneurysm at the proximal right posterior cerebral artery with a sharp bleb, measuring 9.8 mm in diameter. Given the complex vascular anatomy, stent-assisted coil embolization was initially considered but deemed high risk for dual catheter for jailing technique with 6-Fr size guiding catheter due to the tortuosity and stenosis of the parent vessel. Therefore, we opted for flow diverter treatment, which presented its challenges during delivery. By employing a low-profile distal access catheter, Phenom Plus (outer diameter: 4.2-Fr. inner diameter: 1.13 mm; Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States), with a minimal ledge between it and the delivery catheter, Phenom 27 (outer diameter: 2.8-Fr, 0.91 mm; Medtronic), we successfully crossed the neck of the aneurysm with Phenom Plus and placed the flow diverter. While acknowledging potential risks, this case demonstrates the value of the neck-crossing technique using a low-profile distal access catheter as an alternative option for treating challenging peripheral artery aneurysms with flow diverters. This technique offers promise in specific situations where conventional methods pose challenges.