Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH): long-term cognitive outcome in patients treated with surgical clipping or endovascular coiling

Abstract

Study findings indicate fewer cognitive deficits following endovascular coiling. Cognitive deficits in the clipped group may be due in part to the invasive nature of neurosurgical clipping. Further prospective research with regard to long-term cognitive and emotional outcomes is warranted. IMPLICATIONS OF REHABILITATION: • Treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms by either endovascualar coiling or neurosurgical clipping can result in significant long-term physical disability as well as cognitive impairment. • Observed cognitive impairment(s) tend to be less in patients following endovascular coiling. • Following ruptured aneurysm, patients with cognitive impairment report reduced health related quality of life and increased anxiety. • Those with identified cognitive impairment(s) may benefit from cognitive remediation.