Should intracranial carotid artery aneurysms be treated with open craniotomy or endovascular intervention?

In general, intracranial carotid artery aneurysms can be treated either with open craniotomy or endovascular intervention, and the choice depends on individual circumstances. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Open Craniotomy

Intracranial carotid artery aneurysms refer to aneurysms occurring in the intracranial segment of the internal carotid artery and are a common cerebrovascular disease. Open craniotomy is a traditional treatment method for such aneurysms. For larger aneurysms or those involving critical structures, open surgery tends to yield better outcomes, as it allows direct visualization and removal of the intracranial carotid artery aneurysm.

2. Endovascular Intervention

Given that each patient’s physical condition varies, for elderly patients or those with poor overall health, endovascular intervention may be recommended under a physician's guidance. This approach involves inserting a catheter into the blood vessels to perform procedures such as embolization or stent placement within the intracranial carotid artery aneurysm, thereby achieving therapeutic goals. Its advantages include minimal invasiveness, faster recovery, and better preservation of normal blood vessels to some extent.

When deciding on a treatment method for intracranial carotid artery aneurysms, patients should make decisions based on their specific conditions and professional advice from their doctors.