USE OF POSTOPERATIVE ANGIOGRAPHY IN CEREBRAL ANEURYSM SURGERY

ABSTRACT

The routine use of postoperative angiography for cerebral aneurysms is a matter of ongoing debate. The information obtained through postoperative angiography includes the adequacy of clipping, the existence of unexpected major vessel occlusion, and previously unidentified aneurysms. The incidence of these occurrences has been estimated to range from 3.5 to 18% and from 0.3 to 11.5%. In view of this many neurosurgeons feel postoperative angiography is warranted in all cases. Others argue that the information will not change the management and is not necessary. Several authors have attempted to identify factors that would predict a more selective need for postoperative angiography; however, no consensus has yet been reached.

In addition to immediate postoperative angiography, some advocate late follow-up angiography. There exist few data regarding the long-term follow-up of surgically treated aneurysms. This article will review the available data and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of postoperative angiography in aneurysm surgery. Particular emphasis will be placed on the use of routine postoperative angiography and the usefulness of late angiographic follow-up of aneurysm patients.

KEYWORD

Aneurysm - aneurysm rest - cerebral angiography - postoperative angiography

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