Casper Versus Precise Stent for the Treatment of Patients with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

PURPOSE: We hypothesized that due to its specific characteristics, the Casper(TM) RX carotid stent (CP) might be particularly suitable for venous sinus stenting (VSS) in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). To test this theory, we compared it to the commonly used Precise Pro RX(TM) stent (PP). METHODS: A total of 15 patients with IIH (median age 28.7 years) were reviewed retrospectively. Technical aspects as well as peri- and postinterventional complication rates were examined in patients treated with CP (n = 10) and the PP (n = 5). Improvements in cerebrospinal fluid opening pressure (CSF OP), transstenotic pressure gradient (TSPG) and clinical symptoms were also assessed. RESULTS: Stent delivery was easier and more successful with the CP than the PP (difficult/failed stent delivery 0.0% versus 57.1%) and consequently achieved with less attempts (≥ 2: 0.0% versus 40.0%). No severe peri- or postinterventional complications or instances of in-stent thrombosis and/or stenosis were observed during follow-up. Improvement of CSF OP and TSPG immediately after VSS as well as at 6‑month follow-up was comparable between the CP and PP group. Both groups showed substantial and similar decreases in intensity and frequency of headache. Almost all patients with other IIH-related symptoms showed either improvement or complete resolution of those symptoms after VSS. All patients who were available for interview (n = 12/15) reported a substantial improvement in quality of life. CONCLUSION: VSS using the CP seems to be safe and effective. The CP may reduce the risk of difficult or failed stent delivery in patients with challenging intracranial venous anatomy. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version of this article (10.1007/s00062-021-01024-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.