RUPTURED POSTERIOR FOSSA ANEURYSMS AND THEIR SURGICAL TREATMENT

Abstract

Aneurysms associated with the vertebral and basilar arteries that had ruptured and produced subarachnoid hemorrhage were described in 12 patients. When compared with subarachnoid hemorrhage from supratentorial aneurysms, there was no difference in the sex and age distribution of the patients. There was no apparent correlation of the cerebrospinal fluid pressure with fundi changes. Eeg showed periodic bursts of generalized slow waves. Bilateral vertebral angiography was best for revealing the aneurysms. Six of the patients were treated surgically by means of a posterior fossa craniotomy or a transtentorial approach. Surgical procedures adopted were that of trapping the aneurysm, ligating the vertebral artery or wrapping the aneurysm with a sheet of muscle. Surgery should take place as soon after the hemorrhage as the patient''s condition permits.