Form and function in intracranial neurovascular stents: A historical perspective and state-of-the-art clinical review for the noninterventionalist

The use of intracranial stents in neurointerventional surgery has been practiced for decades. However, the spectrum of treatable pathology, available devices, and clinical adoption of intracranial stents has exploded in recent years. Diagnostic neuroradiologists play a critical role in the evaluation of these devices after deployment, yet may not be familiar with state-of-the-art intracranial stent devices and indications. This review provides an overview of intracranial stents for cerebrovascular disease, with 3 chief learning objectives: 1) to understand the basic principles of stent design, biomechanics, and deployment, and the resulting influence on cerebrovascular hemodynamics; 2) to be familiar with the spectrum of intracranial pathology amenable to endovascular stent placement; and 3) to recognize the radiographic appearance of successful intracranial stent deployment and intracranial stent–related complications.