Experimental aneurysm models

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, with aneurysms affecting 1% of the population and causing 30,000 annual cases of rupture in the United States. While we have made large leaps forward in understanding the aneurysmal pathophysiology and used this knowledge to improve devices and treatment options, it is important to return to the bench in order to make major breakthroughs. All such major research hinges on the use of a good experimental model, which should be easy to use, cost effective, and reliably recapitulate the disease in patients. In this chapter, we review a variety of historical and modern experimental aneurysm models and their use. Finally, we discuss future aneurysmal research and the models that may help address those challenges.