Interventional Neuroradiology

Abstract

Interventional neuroradiology (INR) is a rapidly evolving field with an expanding variety of indications and techniques. It encompasses the diagnosis and treatment of many neurovascular and spine conditions, including but not limited to cerebral aneurysm, arteriovenous malformations, cerebral vasospasm, and stroke management. To facilitate the close teamwork required between interventionists and anesthesiologists necessary for the successful outcome, it is important to have full understanding of cerebral protection strategies and the potential pitfalls of each procedure. Under normal circumstances, anesthesia goals revolve around maintaining patient immobility, avoiding hemodynamic alterations, and ensuring rapid recovery to facilitate postprocedure neurological evaluation. Interventional radiology suites pose challenges in anesthetic care due to their “off-site” location, remote from the main operating room area, which necessitates special preparations.