Neurointerventional Radiology Research

Our team is at the forefront of identifying and treating CSF-Venous Fistulas, a frequently misdiagnosed cause of severe positional headaches.

• Novel Diagnostic Protocols and Strategies: Recent work has refined the use of Digital Subtraction Myelography (DSM) and tilt-table positioning to catch elusive fistulas that standard imaging often miss.
• Endovascular Innovation: We are evaluating the use of novel liquid embolic agents to seal these fistulas from within the venous system, offering a permanent cure for patients who have failed multiple blood patches.
• Predictors of Outcome following Embolization
• Neurovascular Microanatomy of the Shunt

The research emphasizes the "angioarchitecture" of vascular lesions—how blood actually flows through a tangle or fistula—to predict which ones are most likely to bleed.

• Glymphatics and Neurovascular Disease: Recent research explores the role of the glymphatic system (the brain's "waste clearance" system) in neurovascular disorders, investigating how blood vessel abnormalities impact overall brain health. To learn more, watch a video on the glymphatic system.
• Complex Fistula Management: Our team published critical strategies for managing high-grade Superior Sagittal Sinus and Torcular Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas (dAVF), focusing on technical aspects to safely treat these high-risk areas.

To learn more, watch a video on vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, and their role in neurovascular diseases.

We are constantly evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the latest medical devices to ensure our patients receive the most advanced care.

• Risk Prediction in Stenting: A recent single-center analysis of 161 patients identified specific risk factors for in-stent stenosis after flow-diverter implantation for aneurysms, helping us better tailor post-operative care.
• Next-Generation Coils: We are investigating the clinical advantages of specific novel coils, looking at how their flexibility and compatibility with microcatheters can improve the success of aneurysm treatments.

We published two landmark papers in the Lancet Neurology on advances in screening and management of unruptured intracranial aneurysms.

At Lahey, our team doesn't just follow the standard of care—we create it. By participating in global, multi-center clinical trials, we provide our patients with early access to the most advanced medical devices and treatment techniques in the world.

Ongoing Clinical Trials

• The GUARDIAN Trial (Stryker): We are proud participants in this landmark study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the next generation of flow-diverter technology. This trial focuses on advancing the treatment of complex brain aneurysms, aiming to simplify procedures and improve long-term healing for our patients.
• SURPASS ELITE Post-Market Study: Our team is actively gathering real-world data on the Surpass Elite Flow Diverter. This study tracks the long-term outcomes of patients treated with this specialized stent, ensuring that we continue to provide the highest level of safety and precision when diverting blood flow away from an aneurysm.
• Chronic Migraine & MMA Embolization Trials: Lahey is a key site for pioneering research into Middle Meningeal Artery (MMA) Embolization. We are investigating whether "plugging" specific blood vessels in the lining of the brain can provide long-term relief for patients suffering from debilitating chronic migraines who haven't found success with traditional medications.
• Subdural Hematoma (SDH) Innovation: In addition to migraines, we are researching the use of MMA embolization to treat chronic subdural hematomas (bleeding on the surface of the brain). This research aims to offer a minimally invasive alternative to traditional brain surgery, particularly for elderly or high-risk patients.