Anaesthesia for interventional neuroradiology

Abstract

Purpose of review: Interventional neuroradiology is a rapidly expanding speciality. The aim of this review is to provide the anaesthetist with an up-to-date summary of current and future advances in interventional neuroradiology.

Recent findings: New information continues to emerge from the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial, with a neuropsychological sub-study suggesting an increased frequency of cognitive impairment in the surgical patient group. Aneurysm stenting technology continues to evolve which now implies that intracranial aneurysms with complex vascular architecture can be considered for interventional management. The potential introduction of drug-eluding stents in the management of recurrent intracranial atherosclerotic lesions could have major implications for the anaesthetist in future. Finally, the results from the ARUBA trial (an ongoing multicentre randomized trial of unruptured brain arteriovenous malformations) will be of major importance when considering treatment options in patients with unruptured arteriovenous malformation in the future.

Summary: Providing safe care to patients in the remote radiology suite requires a clear understanding of the complexity of procedures being undertaken, potential complications and careful, thorough assessment of patients.