Recovery of isolated third nerve palsy related to treatment of unruptured posterior communicating artery aneurysm

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the timing and degree of recovery of isolated third nerve palsy due to unruptured posterior communicating artery aneurysm among a Chinese population. Methods: A total of seven eligible patients were studied during a 4-year period by retrospective review. The degree of recovery and time to achieve recovery after presentation were the main outcome measures. Results: There were seven patients with isolated third nerve palsy related to posterior communicating artery aneurysm. After treatment the median recovery time from the initial symptoms was 14 weeks, ranging from 1 to 60 weeks. Two patients (29%) in this group had mild residual symptoms. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that in patients with isolated third nerve palsy related to posterior communicating artery aneurysm, recovery occurred within the first year and the prognosis of recovery was good. © 2007 The Authors; Journal compilation © 2007 College of Surgeons of Hong Kong.