Obstructive hydrocephalus caused by giant basilar artery aneurysm

Abstract

Giant basilar artery aneurysms are rarely associated with hydrocephalus. When it occurs the treatment usually addresses the hydrocephalus rather than the aneurysm itself, especially if it is already thrombosed. The treatment options include ventriculoperitoneal shunting and endoscopic third ventriculostomy, which may be related to high complication rates. However, reducing the intracranial hypertension may produce aneurysmal growth. We report a patient with obstructive hydrocephalus due to thrombosed giant basilar artery aneurysm. The patient initially presented with symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, and was managed by ventriculoperitoneal shunting with significant symptomatic improvement. Fifteen days after operation, the patient died due to a cerebrovascular event. We report a case that deteriorated because of cerebral infarction due to aneurysmal growth after ventriculoperitoneal shunting. We also discuss the treatment options in such cases.