Endovascular Coiling for Cerebral Aneurysms

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is an increasing problem in the United States, affecting approximately 30,000 people every year. Despite advances in the neurosurgical field, approximately 50% of patients die within the first month after hemorrhage. Traditionally, craniotomy with aneurysmal clipping has been employed to manage these patients, but endovascular embolization is moving to the forefront of treatment, particularly for high grade (IV to V) aneurysms. Patient selection is often based on age, aneurysm size, location, characteristics and presentation, and patient hemodynamics. Postprocedure management relies on skilled observers to determine those potential complications that may occur, including vasospasm, rupture, bleeding, or vessel occlusion. Advanced practice nurses have an obligation to be aware not only of the procedure and its management, but also of the potential complications and ongoing care of the patients and families as well.