A randomized trial on the safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms is feasible

Abstract

The safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms remain undetermined. A randomized trial may be the best way to demonstrate the potential benefits of endovascular management. We propose a randomized, prospective, controlled trial comparing the incidence of subarachnoid haemorrage of patients treated by endovascular coiling as compared to conservative management. We would also study a composite outcome combining SAH and the morbidity of treatment. All patients with one or more unruptured aneurysm >> 3 mm eligible for endovascular treatment would be proposed to participate. The study would be conducted in 40-50 centres. The entire study would enrol 1800 patients, recruited over three years and followed for five years, but would be preceded by a feasibility study on 200 patients. A randomized trial comparing endovascular and conservative treatment could have an important impact on the clinical management of intracranial aneurysms.