ABSTRACT
Endovascular therapies have evolved over the past twenty years to a level where they are currently effective in the treatment of many intracerebral vascular problems. Technical advances in digital (computer-based) subtraction angiography, catheter polymer science, metallurgy, device engineering and contrast and pharmaceutical development have all contributed to their success. Early endovascular techniques were considered, at best, ineffective and often dangerous. They have since proved to be safe, effective and necessary as an integral component of treatment at major medical centers. This chapter concentrates on the application of endovascular therapies in the treatment of intracerebral vascular and related diseases.
