Three-dimensional computerized tomography angiography in the diagnosis of intracranial aneurysms:a comparison with Three-dimensional digital subtraction angiography

Objective To evaluate the clinical value of three-dimensional computerized tomography angiography (3D-CTA) to the diagnosis of intracranial aneurysms.Methods Sixty-two patients with suspected intracranial aneurysms were examined by 3D-CTA system.Three-dimensional digital subtraction angiography (3D-DSA) was performed in 11 patients with suspected intracranial aneurysms before the surgery and in 56 patients after the surgery,who underwent neurosurgery for intracranial aneurysms.Results No intracranial aneurysms were found by 3D-CTA and 3D-DSA in 6 patients.Sixty-eight aneurysms were found in 56 patients by 3D-CTA and the operation.The number,form and size of the aneurysms shown by 3D-CTA were consistent with those shown by 3D-DSA and the operation.Conclusions The intracranial aneurysms may be correctly diagnosed as by 3D-DSA,which is the gold stasndard for the diagnosis of the intracranial aneurysm,and 3D-CTA examination,which is relatively noninvasive and may provide the useful information for planning the microsurgery in the patients with intracranial aneurysms.