A cerebral aneurysm can be defined as a thin-walled bulb formed by the outward expansion/dilatation of a vulnerable part of the wall of an intracranial artery, most commonly in the arterial bifurcation, especially in the arterial ring at the base of the brain (Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the preferred site of cerebral aneurysm). Rupture of intracerebral aneurysm often causes severe neurological dysfunction and even life-threatening, so it is often referred to as an intracranial “time bomb”, and in general, active management is recommended after the diagnosis of aneurysm is established. Figure 1: Schematic diagram of intracerebral aneurysm The aim of cerebral artery treatment is to isolate the aneurysm from the normal cerebral circulation, and there are currently two types of treatment: endovascular intervention (aneurysm embolization) and craniotomy (aneurysm clamping). Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the two treatment methods. Endovascular intervention: A very thin tube is inserted into the aneurysm by puncturing a blood vessel at the root of the patient’s thigh, and a spring coil is inserted into the aneurysm to occlude the aneurysm and achieve a therapeutic effect. The advantages of endovascular treatment are short operation time, no need to open the cranial cavity, quick recovery, and the ability to treat multiple aneurysms in different parts of the body at the same time. However, the disadvantages are the high cost, relatively high recurrence rate, and the need for lifelong anticoagulant medication for some patients who require stent-assisted embolization. Figure 2: Schematic diagram of the two treatment methods. Craniotomy: The natural gap between the brain tissues is separated, the aneurysm is exposed from outside the vessel, and the neck of the aneurysm (the area where the aneurysm bubble connects to the cerebral vasculature) is clamped shut with a specially designed clip so that blood flow from the cerebral vasculature does not enter the aneurysm again, thus achieving treatment. This method has a long history and the efficacy has improved with the advances in microscopic neurosurgical techniques. Advantages include a low recurrence rate if the aneurysm is completely clamped, and it is also appropriate for patients with a large combined intracranial hematoma, which can be removed at the same time as the aneurysm is clamped. The disadvantage is that it requires opening of the cranial cavity, which is relatively more traumatic and requires a more demanding surgeon. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice needs to be made on a case-by-case basis. Factors that need to be considered include the location, morphology, number, size, and relationship with surrounding tissues and blood vessels of the aneurysm, the patient’s age and general physical condition, and the economic status of the patient and family.