Long-term patency of elastase-induced aneurysm model in rabbits

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Long-term patency in untreated experimental aneurysms represents a critical attribute of any system proposed for the testing of aneurysm occlusion devices. Our purpose was to evaluate the long-term patency in elastase-induced saccular aneurysm models in rabbits. METHODS: Serial intravenous digital subtractive angiography (IVDSA) was performed in 20 elastase-induced saccular aneurysm models in rabbits 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 months after creation. Aneurysm dimensions, including neck diameter, width, and height, were measured and calculated from IVDSA images. Comparisons of the aneurysm sizes across time were performed by using the paired Wilcoxon signed rank test and the Friedman test. RESULTS: None of the 20 aneurysms showed spontaneous thrombosis at any time point. Mean dimensions did not change over time for any parameter. Mean aneurysm neck, width, and height were not significantly changed at interval evaluations of 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 months (P = .210; P = .413, and P = .405, respectively). CONCLUSION: Long-term patency in elastase-induced saccular aneurysm models in rabbits is excellent. Aneurysm dimensions remain stable for as long as 2 years following creation.