Delayed intraoperative rupture of clipped aneurysm during the awaking from anaesthesia

Abstract

Introduction. Intraoperative rupture (IOR) of an aneurysm is a frightful complication that causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. IOR can be attributed to various parameters, including hypertension, increased intracranial pressure (ICP), fragility of the vessels, and inadequate anaesthesia. IOR due to insufficient anaesthesia is scarcely reported in the literature. Here, we describe a re-ruptured anterior communicating artery (ACoA) after incomplete clipping of the neck during craniotomy closure due to unintended early wake-up from anaesthesia with a discussion about the management. Case description. A 38-year-old male suddenly developed a severe headache, a brief loss of consciousness, and vomiting. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed a subarachnoid haemorrhage in the basal cistern. CT angiography showed a bilobed right ACoA aneurysm with a wide neck and Murphy's teat. The patient was considered for surgery. Clipping of the aneurysm neck was done through two curved clips. During craniotomy closure, the patient started coughing and gagging then a huge IOR was encountered. These events can be mainly attributed to unintended inadequate anaesthesia, particularly muscle relaxants. The bleeding ceased after two suction catheters were inserted, temporary clips were applied, and the readjustment of permanent clips. After surgery, the patient showed a left-sided weakness. His postoperative CT scan showed a right distal anterior cerebral artery (ACA) territory infarction. The weakness improved in the follow-up period. Conclusion. Delayed IOR due to early awaking from anaesthesia should be considered a potential source of complications and bad outcomes in aneurysm surgery.