Aneurysms of the basilar artery treated with circulatory arrest, hypothermia, and barbiturate cerebral protection.

Complete circulatory arrest, deep hypothermia, and barbiturate cerebral protection are efficacious adjuncts in the surgical treatment of selected giant intracranial aneurysms. These techniques were utilized in seven patients, one with a large and six with giant basilar artery aneurysms; four had excellent results, one had a good result, one had a fair outcome, and one died. The rationale for the use of complete cardiac arrest with extracorporeal circulation, hypothermia, and barbiturate cerebral protection is outlined. The surgical and anesthetic considerations are reviewed. The perioperative morbidity and long-term results support the use of these techniques in selected patients with complex intracranial vascular lesions.