Every Option Matters in Complex Neurovascular Surgery
Many aneurysms, AVMs and strokes can now be treated through minimally invasive endovascular techniques. Some complex cases still require open or hybrid surgery. Ronald P. Benitez, MD, brings extensive experience across all three—so the recommendation can be based on your condition, not the limits of a single approach.
Innovation Has Expanded Care. It Has Not Eliminated Complexity.
Endovascular treatment has transformed cerebrovascular care and is often preferred when it can safely and completely address the condition.
But certain aneurysms and AVMs cannot be treated adequately through the blood vessels alone. Open surgery may be necessary because of the lesion’s anatomy, location, size or relationship to critical brain structures.
These are often among the most challenging cases—precisely when extensive open surgical experience matters most.
“There are still cases where open surgery is essential.”
— Ronald P. Benitez, MDWhen catheter-based access is not enough
The shape, location or blood-vessel configuration may make an endovascular-only procedure incomplete or inappropriate.
When the condition must be addressed surgically
Microsurgical clipping or AVM resection may provide direct access and control when open treatment is the better option.
When both approaches are needed
Endovascular embolization may be combined with open surgery as part of a coordinated strategy for selected complex cases.
Maintaining the Skills Complex Cases Still Require
As endovascular procedures have become more common, fewer neurosurgeons regularly perform open cerebrovascular operations. That makes extensive experience with both approaches increasingly uncommon—and especially important when a case cannot be treated through minimally invasive techniques alone.
Dr. Benitez is one of New Jersey’s most senior practicing cerebrovascular neurosurgeons. He has continued performing both open and endovascular procedures as the field has evolved, allowing him to evaluate patients from the perspective of the full range of treatment options.
Questions Every Patient Should Feel Comfortable Asking
A neurovascular diagnosis can feel overwhelming. These questions can help you understand whether every appropriate option has been considered.
What treatment options are available for my condition?
Ask whether endovascular, open and combined approaches were considered and why one option is being recommended.
Does my surgeon perform both open and minimally invasive procedures?
Understanding your surgeon’s experience can help clarify whether the recommendation reflects the full range of available options.
Why is this particular approach right for me?
Your surgeon should explain how your anatomy, imaging, symptoms and treatment risks shaped the recommendation.
Get Answers From a Neurovascular Specialist
Whether you have a new diagnosis, have been told you need treatment or want another opinion, our team can review your imaging and help you understand the full range of appropriate options.
Treatment recommendations depend on the individual diagnosis, anatomy, imaging and clinical circumstances. A neurovascular specialist can explain which options may be appropriate for you.
