Historical landmarks in vascular neurosurgery "on july 10th/2006, at the 70th anniversary of the department of neurosurgery of Zürich medical school"

Abstract

Direct aneurysm surgery started more than 70 years ago. Introduction of cerebral angiography by Moniz in 20s and operating microscope by Yaşargil in 60s were the real cornerstones in vascular neurosurgery. Since then the development of neuroanestesiology and further development of non-invasive imaging (MRA and CTA) together with the latest development of operating microscopes with intraoperative ICG angio have shifted vascular microneurosurgery to a different level to still compete with the 'non-invasiness' of endovascular therapy. There is an increasing demand to perform the already forgotten bypasses mastered only by few and with the high-flow techniques (e.g. ELANA) we can treat lesions that some time ago were considered impossible. Endovascular embolization to reduce the flow in AVM before surgery is very helpful in those cases that can not be treated by embolization or radiosurgery alone. We still need to find a way to detect aneurysms before they rupture and especially those thin-walled that are in an increased risk of rupture. Recent data on the pathobiology of the aneurysm wall may help us to better understanding of the growth mechanisms and it might be possible to develop more potent local or systemic pharmaceutical therapy to induce myo-intimal hyperplasia occluding the aneurysm and strengthening the wall to prevent rupture.