Blade crossing of a pure titanium clip applied to a cerebral aneurysm--case report

Titanium aneurysm clips are superior to cobalt clips in radiological features, biocompatibility, and hypoallergenicity, but the mechanical characteristics are less advantageous. A 56-year-old man was referred to our department due to dizziness and slurred speech. Cerebral angiography unexpectedly disclosed an aneurysm of the right middle cerebral artery. The patient underwent right frontotemporal craniotomy and neck clipping of the aneurysm with a commercially pure titanium clip. After application of the clip, the clip blades crossed and nearly sheared the wall of the aneurysm. The mechanical characteristics of titanium aneurysm clips require careful consideration because of possible clip malfunction.