Management of subarachnoid hemorrhage

SAH is an important and common form of stroke. Detection of SAH is now possible through the clinical syndrome and CT scanning. Angiography is required to pinpoint the site of the hemorrhage. Medical therapy to prevent complications is often effective. Surgical therapy to prevent recurrent hemorrhage is now effective and safe with modern microsurgical methods. Even with large and deep aneurysms or AVMs, indirect treatment by means of interventional radiology or radiosurgery may be effective in eliminating these life-threatening lesions. In a few cases, evacuation of intraparenchymal brain hematoma can be life-saving. SAH is common, readily identified, and treatable. All physicians should be able to recognize and institute appropriate management for this important subclass of stroke.