Endovascular treatment of giant intracranial aneurysms

The treatment of giant intracranial aneurysms is complex and fraught with obstacles. Endovascular technology can be helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of these lesions. These techniques can serve as an adjunct to surgical interventions or as primary therapy. Balloon test occlusion has proved useful before arterial sacrifice. Coil occlusion of giant aneurysms can be effective, and both electrically detachable and nondetachable coil systems play a role in definitive therapy. Inflation of a compliant balloon adjacent to the aneurysm orifice during coil delivery can facilitate tight packing of the aneurysm. Stents will also play an increasing role in the treatment of giant aneurysms in the future.