[Neuropsychological deficits after surgical repair of anterior communicating artery aneurysm]

Abstract

Based on the review of literature we tried to establish the pattern and dynamic of psychoneurological disturbances as a result of rupture and surgical procedures of anterior communicating artery (ACoA) aneurysm in three aspects: pathoanatomy, pathophysiology and rehabilitation. Anterior communicating artery syndrome (amnesia, confabulation, personality changes) was observed in very few patients, especially in those after clipping of an anterior communicating artery (trapping). Mostly neuropsychological pattern consisted of anterograde memory problems, executive dysfunctions, global attention impairments, confabulations and personality changes. Neuropsychological deficits observed in ACoA patients were probably a result of basal forebrain lesions. The precise analysis of the disturbances is necessary especially in the early stage. Proper cognitive rehabilitation of attention and memory functions is recommended to improve professional and daily living activities.