For the first time, we have created a nationwide network across all neuroendovascular centres to collect real-world data on advanced aneurysm treatments, providing a powerful resource to drive improvements in patient care and outcomes. By systematically analysing factors like aneurysm recurrence and the optimal imaging modalities for device follow-up, we aim to set new standards in neuroendovascular practice and help shape the future of aneurysm care.
Dr Thomas C Booth, Reader in Neuroimaging at the School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences and co-lead of the SEATED study.
04 June 2025
King's leads major national study to improve brain aneurysm treatment
Researchers from the School from the School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences are leading a major UK-wide study to improve the treatment of brain aneurysms using advanced endovascular devices.
The SEATED study (Safety and Efficacy of Aneurysms Treated with Endovascular Devices) aims to gather real-world data from around 5,000 patients over the next decade, in collaboration with 27 leading interventional neuroradiology centres across the country.
Brain aneurysms, if ruptured, can cause life-threatening bleeding. While minimally invasive endovascular techniques such as coiling and flow diversion have transformed treatment, evidence for newer devices remains limited. Conducting large-scale randomised controlled trials has become increasingly challenging, making pragmatic national studies like SEATED critical for advancing clinical practice.
SEATED will collect detailed information on treatment protocols, patient outcomes, imaging follow-ups, and complications. Early results reveal significant variation between centres, even when using the same devices. By analysing this variability, the study aims to identify best practices and improve standardisation across the NHS.
The silent, often fatal nature of brain aneurysms compels an immediate and comprehensive collaboration, a unified strategy to combat this critical health challenge. This national network, linking all neurovascular centres, represents a pivotal advancement. By pooling real-world experiences and outcomes from across the country, we will gain unprecedented insights into optimal treatments and long-term management. Our commitment is to translate these findings into tangible improvements in patient care and establish new benchmarks for neurovascular practice nationwide.
Dr Ahmed Bassiouny, Radiology Consultant and Research Fellow at King's College London
Importantly, SEATED will also explore risk factors for aneurysm recurrence and provide much-needed evidence for less commonly used or off-label devices. The initiative is expected to strengthen clinical decision-making and enhance patient safety across the UK.
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Reader in Neuroimaging