Objective
To study the ideal patient's head positioning for the anterior circulation aneurysms microsurgery.
Method
We divided the study in two parts. Firstly, 10 fresh cadaveric heads were positioned and dissected in order to ideally expose the anterior circulation aneurysm sites. Afterwards, 110 patients were submitted to anterior circulation aneurysms microsurgery. During the surgery, the patient's head was positioned accordingly to the aneurysm location and the results from the cadaveric study. The effectiveness of the position was noted.
Results
We could determine mainly two patterns for head positioning for the anterior circulation aneurysms.
Conclusion
The best surgical exposure is related to specific head positions. The proper angle of microscopic view may minimize neurovascular injury and brain retraction.
cerebral aneurysm; head positioning; anatomical landmarks; anterior circulation arteries; microsurgery