Introduction: The Benchmark (Penumbra, Inc., Alameda, CA) is a novel guide catheter that provides stability proximally and has a hyper flexible and atraumatic distal tip. We assessed the use of the Benchmark for placement of Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) for intracranial aneurysms.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients with intracranial aneurysms undergoing PED placement using the Benchmark from April to October 2015. Guide catheter performance was measured by the number of 90° turns the catheter could safely cross. One point was assigned for each 90° turn and points were added. Landing and final position of the guide catheter tip was recorded.
Results: A total of 26 procedures were performed in 25 patients (mean age 59.5 ± 10.3 years; male: female = 5 :20). Eighteen aneurysms were located in the anterior and 8 in the posterior circulation. In only one case (3.8%) the Benchmark guide catheter had to be substituted for the a traditional triaxial system. The Benchmark was able to cross at least one 90° turn in 12 (48%) and two 90° turns in 10 (40%) of 25 patients. It crossed three 90° turns in 2 (8%) patients. There was 1 (3.8%) thromboembolic event and no arterial dissections.
Conclusions: Preliminary experience shows that the Benchmark is a good alternative to the traditional triaxial guide catheter system such as the Navien (Covidien, Plymouth, MN) for placement of PED and may reduce the complexity of the procedure.
Patient Care: It will provide more safety during surgical interventions.
Learning Objectives: Benchmark guide catheter can be use easily and safely for placement of PED for the treatment of a cerebrovascular aneurysm. It can be placed in distal most place within the intracranial vasculature to provide more stability.