Intraoperative angiography in aneurysm surgery: an initial experience

Intraoperative angiography (IOA) assumes an important role in the prevention of complications such as aneurysmal neck remnant or compromise of adjacent cerebral vasculature during surgery for cerebral aneurysms. Aims : To determine the feasibility, efficacy and safety of IOA in aneurysmal surgery.

Prospective study of IOA in patients undergoing aneurysmal surgery.

IOA was performed using digital subtraction angiography (DSA) compatible C-arm, radiolucent operating table and appropriate femoral sheath, guiding catheters and guide wires in 20 consecutive patients after surgical clipping of the cerebral aneurysm. The post-clipping IOA was compared with preoperative angiogram.

Complete aneurysmal obliteration was confirmed in all the patients. In two patients compromization of adjacent vessels was noted, which could be rectified by repositioning of the clip. Some degree of vasospasm was noted in all the patients. Intra-arterial nimodipine was administered in four patients with severe vasospasm. There was improvement in two patients. Time taken for performing IOA varied from 30 to 45 min. No complications attributable to IOA were encountered in this study.

IOA is a safe and effective adjunctive tool for aneurysm clipping. Routine use of IOA in all cases of aneurysmal surgery is recommended.