Unexpected ruptured aneurysm during posterior fossa surgery

Abstract

Background and importanceSurgery is the recommended treatment for unique significant cerebellar metastasis, particularly in cases of hydrocephalus. Complications of posterior fossa surgery are associated with high risk of morbidity and mortality. We present a unique case of unexpected peroperative rupture of a cerebellar superior artery aneurysm during posterior fossa surgery. Clinical presentationDuring posterior cranial fossa surgery, severe arterial bleeding occurred in front of the medulla oblongata. Immediate postoperative computed tomographic (CT) angiography revealed a fusiform aneurysm from a distal branch of the left superior cerebellar artery. ConclusionTo our knowledge, this is the first reported operative case of unexpected infratentorial ruptured aneurysm during posterior fossa surgery.