Surgical Revascularization for the Treatment of Complex Anterior Cerebral Artery Aneurysms: Experience and Illustrative Review.

BACKGROUND: Many methods for treating complex anterior cerebral artery (ACA) aneurysms are available; however, there is substantial variation among methods because of various aneurysm locations, the relationship of the aneurysm to arterial branches, aneurysm size and other morphologic characteristics, and the diameters of the parent or branching arteries.

METHODS: We reviewed complex ACA aneurysms based on both our own experience and the available literature. Each unique case is analyzed in terms of the characteristics of the aneurysm, along with analysis and classification of the revascularization method used. Computer tablet-drawn illustrations of each unique technique are provided for comprehension and application in various situations.

RESULTS: Over 6 years, we treated 5 cases of complex ACA aneurysms (1 precommunicating, 1 communicating, 1 postcommunicating, and 2 precallosal-supracallosal segment) with revascularization. Side-to-side anastomoses included pericallosal ACA segment-pericallosal ACA segment in 3 cases, supracallosal ACA segment-supracallosal ACA segment in 1 case, and ipsilateral callosomarginal artery-pericallosal artery in 1 case. Final modified Rankin scale score was 0 in 4 of 5 cases and 3 in 1 case. Six treatment strategies were used for the precommunicating aneurysm, 8 for the communicating aneurysm, 7 for the postcommunicating aneurysm, and 9 for the 2 precallosal-supracallosal segment aneurysms.

CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of complex ACA aneurysms should be tailored according to the location and nature of the aneurysm and collateral circulation. Viable and feasible treatment strategies must be established by the neurovascular surgeon.