Challenges in Using the Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery for Revascularization of the Anterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery: A Microsurgical Anatomic Study

Endovascular treatment of anterior inferior cerebellar artery trunk aneurysms

BACKGROUND

The anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) is a very slender and anatomically variable artery that gives off many important perforating arteries that feed the brainstem and nerve-related arteries that feed the inner ear and labyrinth. AICA trunk aneurysms are rare entities that are also difficult to manage. At present, endovascular treatment (EVT) is the preferred choice; however, the understanding of EVT for AICA trunk aneurysms is limited.

METHODS

In this article, we present a literature review on EVT for AICA trunk aneurysms. To promote understanding, we would also provide some illustrative educational cases of our institute.

RESULTS

Aneurysms along the AICA trunk can occur alone (isolated AICA aneurysm) or secondary to cerebrovascular shunts (flow-related AICA aneurysm). According to their anatomical location, they can also be divided into proximal and distal types. At present, EVT is the mainstream treatment, mainly including selective coiling with parent artery preservation and parent artery occlusion. Both coils and liquid embolization materials can be used.

CONCLUSIONS

For AICA trunk aneurysms, EVT is a reasonable choice and should be based on the specific anatomical location, pathology, and collateral circulation. However, there is still controversy as to the specific type of treatment that should be chosen.

Literature Review of Anatomical Variations: Clinical Significance, Identification Approach, and Teaching Strategies

This article is a comprehensive literature review on anatomical variations, shedding some light on their clinical significance, identification approaches, and teaching strategies. Anatomical variation is a normal presentation of body structure with morphological features different from those that have been classically described in several anatomy textbooks. Under normal circumstances, it has no impact on the function of the structure. However, it may influence different aspects of clinical practice. As a result, accurate knowledge of common anatomical variations in the treated area may improve clinical practice outcomes. On the other hand, anatomical variations are usually identified during routine dissection and clinical practice, including preoperative imaging and surgical procedures. Additionally, scientific research, such as observational studies using cadaveric dissection, medical images, and evidence-based anatomy, are effective approaches to identify anatomical variations. With regard to the teaching of anatomical variations, cadaveric dissection is the most commonly used and recommended learning tool for teaching anatomy and relevant variations in medical schools. However, the literature emphasizes introducing anatomical variations in the clinical phase of medical curricula and postgraduate training of surgical and radiological programs. The current study suggests creating a registry of anatomical variations encountered during practice that may enhance best care and prevent any confusion about those variations. In addition, there is a need to conduct more educational studies to research the best learning strategies for teaching and assessing anatomical variations in the medical curricula.