The History and Development of Endovascular Neurosurgery

Abstract

Endovasuclar neurosurgery, neuroendovascular surgery and neurointervention are all defined as endovascular diagnosis and treatment of vascular lesions involving the brain and spinal cord using catheters in the DSA (digital subtraction angiography) unite. Based on literature evidences, the field of endovascular neurosurgery has evolved rapidly and successfully over the past half century and has resulted in effective endovascular therapies for carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs), intracranial aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), dural arteriovenous fistulas, atherosclerosis of cerebral arteries, acute stroke, carotid artery disease, and vascular tumors of the head, neck, and spinal vascular malformations and tumors. The scope of practice of neurovascular endovascular surgery has become complex, requiring training in specific skill sets and techniques. The evolution of the neuroendovascular field has resulted in the development of program requirements for residency or fellowship education in endovascular neurosurgery.