Aneurysms of the Proximal (A1) Segment of the Anterior Cerebral Artery: A Clinical Analysis of 31 Cases

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of A1 aneurysms according to their locations and to compare their imaging appearances so as to identify factors associated with their rupture. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 31 patients harboring 32 A1 aneurysms diagnosed and treated between March 2009 and September 2018 at our institute. RESULTS: Thirteen (41.9%) of the patients had vascular abnormalities, and multiple aneurysms were found in 13 (41.9%) patients. A total of 16 (53.3%) aneurysms were located on the proximal A1 segment, whereas the middle segments were affected in 7 (23.3%) and the distal segments in 7 (23.3%). Altogether, 93.8% of proximal A1 aneurysms projected posteriorly, 85.7% of middle aneurysms projected superiorly, and 85.7% of distal aneurysms projected inferiorly (P = 0.000). Four (33.3%) of the 12 total ruptured aneurysms were located on the distal A1 segment. Nine (69.2%) ruptured aneurysms were elongated or irregular in shape (P = 0.004). The aspect and height-width ratios of the ruptured aneurysms were higher than those of the unruptured aneurysms (P = 0.001, P = 0.018, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Most A1 aneurysms showed a directional predilection according to the location of the A1 segment. Additionally, A1 aneurysms with elongated or irregular shapes, high aspect or height-width ratios, and distal locations of the A1 segment showed high risks of rupture. Therefore, a thorough assessment of the characteristics of A1 aneurysms can enhance the selection of proper treatment strategies.