Intra-arterial colforsin daropate for the treatment of cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

INTRODUCTION

Cerebral vasospasm (CV) remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Here, we examined the effectiveness and safety of intra-arterial injection of colforsin daropate hydrochloride (CDH).

METHODS

A consecutive series of 29 patients with angiographically confirmed CV received intra-arterial CDH (IAC) therapy. Angiographic changes in spastic vessels and the cerebral circulation time (CCT) were assessed before and after IAC treatment, together with the change in clinical status.

RESULTS

IAC treatment was performed in 53 procedures in 29 patients. Angiographic improvement was observed following all procedures (100%), and clinical improvement was observed following 36 of 42 procedures (86%) in symptomatic cases. CCT improved significantly. At the 3-month follow-up, 19 patients (66%) showed good recovery or moderate disability on the Glasgow Outcome Scale. Major adverse effects were headache and increased heart rate.

CONCLUSIONS

IAC treatment was effective and safe for the treatment of CV after SAH.