Multidisciplinary approach to traumatic intracranial aneurysms secondary to shotgun and handgun wounds

BACKGROUND Traumatic intracranial aneurysms (TICAs) may develop following gunshot injuries to the head. Management of these lesions often combines various aspects of microneurosurgical and endovascular techniques to safely repair or obliterate vessel defects. METHODS We reviewed our experience over the last 18 years and identified five cases of intracranial aneurysms following gunshot and handgun wounds that were treated surgically and/or endovascularly. RESULTS All patients had successful obliteration of their lesions using a variety of therapeutic modalities aimed at preserving neurologic function while at the same time eliminating the aneurysm from the circulation. CONCLUSION Both microneurosurgery and endovascular surgery have important roles to play in the management of TICAs. In some cases, both methods can be combined to eliminate lesions and maximize patient recovery in a safe, efficient, and effective fashion.