History, Evolution, and Continuing Innovations of Intracranial Aneurysm Surgery

World Neurosurg. 2017 Jun:102:673-681. doi: 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.02.006. Epub 2017 Feb 9.

Abstract

Evolution in the surgical treatment of intracranial aneurysms is driven by the need to refine and innovate. From an early application of the Hunterian carotid ligation to modern-day sophisticated aneurysm clip designs, progress has been made through dedication and technical maturation of cerebrovascular neurosurgeons to overcome challenges in their practices. The global expansion of endovascular services has challenged the existence of aneurysm surgery, changing the complexity of the aneurysm case mix and volume that are referred for surgical repair. Concepts of how to best treat intracranial aneurysms have evolved over generations and will continue to do so with further technological innovations. As with the evolution of any type of surgery, innovations frequently arise from the criticism of current techniques.

Keywords: History; Intracranial aneurysm; Microsurgery; Surgery.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carotid Artery, Internal / surgery
  • Equipment Design
  • Fluorescence
  • Forecasting
  • History, 18th Century
  • History, 19th Century
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, 21st Century
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Aneurysm / history
  • Intracranial Aneurysm / surgery*
  • Inventions / history
  • Inventions / trends
  • Ligation / history
  • Microsurgery / history
  • Microsurgery / trends
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / history
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / trends
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / history
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / instrumentation
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / trends
  • Surgical Instruments / history