The management of a patient with a cerebral aneurysm is complex, and two accepted treatment modalities are now available. The superiority of either of the treatment options has not been defined, but data are now available with regard to the safety and efficacy of each modality and can be used to decide what is best for individual patients when combined with other important variables, such as the patient's expected longevity, specific aneurysm factors (eg, size, dome-to-neck ratio, location), and operator's experience. This complex decision entertaining all the variables should ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care. New developments in the endovascular management of cerebral aneurysms are likely to alter this algorithm.
