Symptomatic intracranial arterial disease: incidence, natural history, diagnosis, and management

Ananth K Vellimana1, Andria L Ford, Jin-Moo Lee

  • 1Department of Neurological Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

Neurosurgical Focus
|June 3, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Symptomatic intracranial arterial disease poses a high risk of recurrent ischemic events. Management strategies, including medical, endovascular, and surgical options, are debated, with literature guiding recommendations.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Vascular Neurology
  • Interventional Neurology

Background:

  • Symptomatic intracranial arterial disease carries a significant risk of recurrent ischemic events.
  • Current management strategies for this condition remain controversial.
  • Treatment options range from medical therapy to endovascular and surgical interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the available literature on the management of symptomatic intracranial arterial disease.
  • To provide evidence-based treatment recommendations for this condition.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive review of existing medical literature was conducted.
  • Data from studies on medical, endovascular, and surgical treatments were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • The review highlights the controversy surrounding optimal treatment approaches.
  • Evidence supports various therapeutic options depending on individual patient factors.

Conclusions:

  • Treatment recommendations are provided based on a thorough literature review.
  • A multidisciplinary approach may be necessary for optimal patient outcomes.

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