Journal of neurosurgery
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Journal of neurosurgery · Dec 2004
Case ReportsIncidence and risk factors for the growth of unruptured cerebral aneurysms: observation using serial computerized tomography angiography.
The goal of this study was to examine the growth of unruptured intracranial aneurysms with the focus on the risk factors and incidence of these lesions. ⋯ A diameter of at least 10 mm and a location at the BA bifurcation or the ICA were significant risk factors for aneurysm growth. The incidence of growth was 2.5% in the 1st year and this risk increased yearly. Computerized tomography angiography is useful for follow up of patients with aneurysms because it allows the detection of even subtle morphological changes.
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Mechanisms involved in the rupture of intracranial aneurysms remain unclear, and the literature on apoptosis in these lesions is extremely limited. The hypothesis that apoptosis may reduce aneurysm wall resistance, thus contributing to its rupture, warrants investigation. The authors in this study focused on the comparative evaluation of apoptosis in ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Peripheral arteries in patients harboring the aneurysms and in a group of controls were also analyzed. ⋯ In this series, aneurysm rupture appeared to be more related to elevated apoptosis levels than to the volume of the aneurysm sac. Data in this study could open the field to investigations clarifying the causes of aneurysm enlargement and rupture.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Dec 2004
Case ReportsSimultaneous microscopic and endoscopic monitoring during surgery for internal carotid artery aneurysms.
The authors of this study evaluated the efficacy of simultaneous microscopic and endoscopic monitoring during surgery for internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms. ⋯ Simultaneous monitoring with the microscope and endoscope is extremely useful in applying clips to ICA aneurysms. This combined method allows for direct dissection of the aneurysm, perforating vessels, and the main trunk in an area not visible through the microscope's eyepiece and promises better surgical results.