Trapping and P2-P3 Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Reanastomosis for Treatment of a Ruptured Fusiform Aneurysm: Application of Fourth-Generation Technique: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

Aneurysms of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) represent the second most common posterior circulation aneurysm and commonly have complex morphology. Various bypass options exist for PICA aneurysms,1-6 depending on their location relative to brainstem perforators and the vertebral artery, and the presence of nearby donor arteries. We present a case of a man in his late 40s who presented with 3 d of severe headache. He was found to have a fusiform right P2-segment PICA aneurysm. Preoperative angiogram demonstrated the aneurysm and a redundant P3 caudal loop that came in close proximity to the healthy P2 segment proximal to the aneurysm. The risks and benefits of the procedure were discussed with the patient, and they consented for a right far lateral approach craniotomy with partial condylectomy for trapping of the aneurysm with bypass. The aneurysm was trapped proximally and distally. The P3 was transected just distal to the aneurysm and brought toward the proximal P2 segment, facilitated by a lack of perforators on this redundant distal artery. An end-to-side anastomosis was performed. Postoperative angiogram demonstrated exclusion of the aneurysm and patent bypass. The patient recovered well and remained without any neurological deficit at 6-mo follow-up. This case demonstrates the use of a "fourth-generation"5,7,8 bypass technique. These techniques represent the next innovation beyond third-generation intracranial-intracranial bypass. In this type 4B reanastomosis bypass, an unconventional orientation of the arteries was used. Whereas reanastomosis is typically performed end-to-end, the natural course of these arteries and the relatively less-mobile proximal P2 segment made end-to-side the preferred option in this case. Fourth-generation bypass techniques open up more configurations for reanastomosis, using the local anatomy to the surgeon's advantage. The patient consented to the described procedure and consented to the publication of their image.