Introduction During the course of endovascular treatment of aneurysms with the Woven Endobridge (WEB), it may be necessary to retrieve the device to improve its position, to change to a different size or type, or if detachment attempts fail.

Aim of Study The aim of this study was to retrospectively review the frequency, reasons and potential complications associated with WEB retrieval.

Methods Data from 171 WEB procedures performed at two medical centres were analysed, with 32 cases requiring WEB retrieval. Aneurysm characteristics, procedural details, complications, angiographic results, and clinical outcomes were evaluated.

Results The mean aneurysm size was 6.2 ± 2.1 mm, with 11 aneurysms (34.3%) initially ruptured. WEB retrieval was performed in 25 cases (78.2%) for sizing, 6 cases (18.8%) for repositioning and 1 case (3.2%) for failed deployment. Two patients experienced complications during retrieval: 1) Formation and dislodgement of an appositional thrombus during oversized WEB retrieval in a ruptured basilar tip aneurysm resulting in a small posterior infarct (modified Rankin Scale score 3 at discharge). 2) Aneurysm rupture during WEB retrieval, leaving the newly implanted WEB in the subarachnoid space.

Conclusion Although complications from WEB retrieval are rare, interventionalists should be aware of their potential occurrence and the retrieval procedure should always be approached with caution and deliberate care.

Disclosure of Interest CK serves as consultants for Acandis GmbH (Pforzheim, Germany), CK and TL serve as proctor for MicroVention Inc./Sequent Medical (Aliso Viejo, CA, USA). David Zopfs is on the speaker’s bureau of Philips (Amsterdam, the Netherlands) and lecturer for Amboss GmbH (Cologne, Germany). The other authors declare that they have no competing interests.