Construction of an in vivo carotid siphon model for testing endovascular devices for neuro-interventions.

Objective The aim of this study was to construct an in vivo carotid siphon model for testing neurovascular devices for endovascular interventions. Methods A model of a human carotid siphon was pre-shaped using a glass tube from a human cadaver and used to confine a segment of one side of the common carotid artery (CCA) in canines. This segment of CCA with the glass carotid siphon on was interposed end-to-end onto the contralateral CCA so as to simulate a human carotid artery siphon in vivo. Two weeks later, the siphon model was evaluated using computed tomography angiography and digital subtraction angiography, and the covered stent specially designed for intracranial vasculature was navigated through the siphon model for a longitudinal flexibility test. Results All dogs tolerated the procedures well, and the artificial siphon model in vivo provided realistic conditions for device testing. Two weeks later, the in vivo carotid siphon model remained patent with no thrombosis. Five covered stents were navigated to pass through five siphon models successfully, with vasospasm occurring in two siphons. Conclusion Construction of an in vivo siphon model in dogs with a glass tube is feasible and useful for the test of endovascular devices for treating neurovascular diseases.