Historical Landmarks in the Management of Aneurysms and Arteriovenous Malformations of the Central Nervous System

Objective: To describe the history of vascular and endovascular neurosurgery. Methods: A literature research was conducted including historical events from 2000 bc to the twenty-first century ad, and a timetable was filled with information regarding the most representative historical landmarks regarding vascular and endovascular neurosurgery. Results: Starting from approaches limited to the cervical carotid artery, vascular neurosurgery gained its way through the intracranial and finally endovascular space thanks to the introduction of both innovative and progressively less invasive procedures. With the invention of cerebral angiography in 1927, Egas Moniz paved the way for modern endovascular neurosurgery. Conclusions: Numerous pioneers have been described through this historical reconstruction. Their genius, effort, dedication, and passion brought a massive contribution to vascular and endovascular neurosurgery as we know it today.