Adenosine to facilitate the clipping of cerebral aneurysms: literature review

Cerebral aneurysms have a high mortality rate when ruptured. Endovascular techniques have improved substantially in treating this pathology. However, surgical clip ligation remains the preferred option for some aneurysms. Various techniques are used intraoperatively to assist the surgeon in dissecting the aneurysmal dome free of surrounding tissue and placing a clip around the neck safely and effectively so that no nearby perforating vessels are affected and no residual remains. These techniques include temporary clip ligation, endovascular balloon occlusion and cardiac standstill. Adenosine use is one viable option for induced cardiac arrest leading to a short period of controlled hypotension. Its predictable course of action, rapid onset and offset and rare incidence of adverse side effects make it an attractive agent in this regard. Below, we provide an introduction to adenosine use, describing its pharmacokinetic properties, indications, contraindications, complications and future directions.