Vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage: utility of perfusion CT and CT angiography on diagnosis and management

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is associated with up to 67% case fatality and 10-20% long-term dependence in survivors.1,2 Vasospasm represents the leading cause of death and disability in patients who survive the initial event.1 The prevalence of vasospasm during the first 2 weeks following SAH is as high as 70%, and 50% of the patients with angiographic vasospasm will eventually develop ischemic neurological deficits.3

Early recognition and prompt treatment of vasospasm can improve neurological outcomes.4-6