Masters Applied Projects

Project 32

Creation of Iodinated, Thermoresponsive NIPAAm-based Co-polymer for Endovascular Aneurysm Repair


Student:
Anthony Silva

Mentors:

Dr. Brent Vernon, PhD – Arizona State University, SBHSE
Dr. Jessica Weaver, PhD – Arizona State University, SBHSE
Mr. Jeffrey Blanzy, PhD - Candidate, Arizona State University, SBHSE

YouTube Link:
View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom Link:
https://asu.zoom.us/j/8313476500


Abstract
Intercranial aneurysms have posed a critical pitfall in modern medical care, as rupture of these aneurysms have a mortality rate of 50% and cause permanent neurological deficit in about 66% of survivors. Currently, the standard treatment for intercranial aneurysms is surgical clipping or the use of endovascular embolic coils, both of which block circulation into the aneurysmal space to prevent a rupture from occurring. Both treatments have their downsides; surgical clipping requires a craniotomy, which is an extremely invasive surgical procedure, while embolic coils suffer from relatively high rates of recanalization and incomplete occlusion. Thermoresponsive polymers that physically and chemically crosslink show promise as an effective treatment for embolizing aneurysms. These polymers are predicted to be an effective form of occlusion, have a lower risk of migration and recanalization, and the procedure of implantation is minimally invasive. However, implantation of these polymers has run into issues related to the visualization of the polymer. This report focuses on establishing a method to create an iodinated form of a NIPAAm-based co-polymer to make it an ideal candidate for use in aneurysms and other vascular malformations. This work provides some preliminary data on the radiopaque properties of the potential therapy for intercranial aneurysms.