Dissecting aneurysms of the vertebrobasilar system. A comprehensive review on natural history and treatment options

Neurosurg Rev. 2008 Apr;31(2):131-40; discussion 140. doi: 10.1007/s10143-008-0124-x. Epub 2008 Feb 29.

Abstract

Vertebral artery dissection has been recognized as an uncommon cause of ischemic stroke. However, it is less well known as a cause of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Even if dissecting aneurysms of the vertebral artery are rare, their importance arise from their high morbidity and mortality with rebleeding occurring more often than in cases of saccular aneurysms. Dissecting aneurysms of the vertebrobasilar system are a complex entity which requires a rapid and effective treatment to prevent rerupture. The sole stenting technique stands as a promising approach, allowing to occlude the aneurysm while preserving the vessel patency and reconstructing the diseased segment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aortic Dissection / epidemiology
  • Aortic Dissection / pathology*
  • Aortic Dissection / surgery*
  • Cerebral Angiography
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Intracranial Aneurysm / epidemiology
  • Intracranial Aneurysm / pathology*
  • Intracranial Aneurysm / surgery*
  • Neurosurgical Procedures*
  • Vertebral Artery Dissection / epidemiology
  • Vertebral Artery Dissection / pathology*
  • Vertebral Artery Dissection / surgery*