| Title | Mechanical treatment of vasospasm. | | Author(s) | Haque R, Kellner CP, Komotar RJ, Connolly ES, Lavine SD, Solomon RA, Meyers PM | | Institution | Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Neurological Institute of New York, New York, USA; Department of Radiology, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Neurological Institute of New York, New York, USA. | | Source | Neurol Res 2009 Jul; 31(6):638-43. | | Abstract | OBJECTIVE: Since cerebral vasospasm (CV) was first described nearly half a century ago, significant progress has been made in understanding its underlying pathophysiology and developing treatment modalities. The purpose of this review is to discuss the rationale behind mechanical interventions for CV as well as the efficacy and complications associated with these treatment options.
METHODS: The authors summarize the pertinent literature on the mechanical treatment of CV, focusing first on balloon angioplasty, second on therapy combined with intra-arterial drug infusion, and concluding by briefly discussing intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation. The epidemiology, pathophysiology, technique, outcome, timing and complications are discussed for each treatment option.
RESULTS: A review of the relevant medical literature reveals that in the last 20 years, endovascular techniques including transluminal balloon angioplasty, intra-arterial drug infusion and newer experimental strategies have provided an important supplement to the established medical therapy.
DISCUSSION: Despite these developments, however, CV remains a major contributor to poor outcome following aSAH and continued efforts are necessary to improve and refine endovascular strategies as well as develop new treatment modalities. | | Language | eng | | Pub Type(s) | Journal Article
| | PubMed ID | 19660193 |
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