Evolution of cerebral revascularization techniques.
As a leading cause of death and disability in patients across the world, stroke is a problem that plagues both neurosurgeons and neurologists alike. Whether a result of atherosclerosis, moyamoya disease, or a complication in the treatment of a complex intracranial aneurysm, cerebrovascular occlusion can have devastating effects on patients. For nearly half a century neurosurgeons have searched for safer, more effective ways to increase the amount of blood flow to ischemic brain tissue. From the first extracranial-intracranial bypasses to the recent technological advancements seen with endovascular therapy, cerebral revascularization techniques have been constantly evolving. Over the years cerebral ischemia has gone from a condition that was previously considered surgically untreatable, to a condition with several viable options for prevention and treatment. In this paper the authors discuss the historical evolution of treatment for cerebrovascular occlusive disease.
Crowley
R Webster
RW
Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Medel
Ricky
R
Dumont
Aaron S
AS
D015906:Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary; D002548:Cerebral Revascularization / Q000266:history* / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000266:history* / Q000601:surgery; D004724:Endoscopy; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D015607:Stents