The Role of Neurosurgeons in the Era of Intra-Aneurysmal Treatment

Lee, Kyu Chang

Abstract

The advent of endovascular treatment offers an alternate strategy for the management of cerebral aneurysms. This procedure can provide immediate protection from rebleeding of ruptured aneurysm or rupture of an unruptured aneurysm in cases with advanced age, poor medical condition, difficult surgical anatomy, and attempted surgery. This review article was designed to address current and future roles of neurosurgeons in the era of intra-aneurysmal treatment on the basis of author's experience of more than 200 cases during the past 6 years. The role of neurosurgeons in the era of endovascular treatment could be defined as follows. Close collaboration between neurosurgeons and neurointerventionists is essential to obtaining favorable outcome. Neurointerventionists should be capable of evaluating the benefits and risks of open surgery as well as those of endovascular treatment. It is vitally important not only that neurosurgeons be involved in the evolution of new subspecialty, but also that neurosurgical program directors continue to train young neurosurgeons in the microsurgical management of cerebral aneurysms. Neurosurgeons should maintain a leadership role in the management of cerebral aneurysms.