Cognitive and Emotional Changes Five Years after SAH – a Case Report

Czech version

Authors: J. Koblihová ¹; M. Preiss ²; D. Netuka ³; L. Bernardová ³; V. Beneš ³
Authors‘ workplace: Ústřední lékařsko-psychologické oddělení, ÚVN Praha ¹; Psychiatrické centrum Praha, University of New York in Prague ²; Neurochirurgická klinika 1. LF UK, IPVZ a ÚVN Praha ³
Published in: Cesk Slov Neurol N 2011; 74/107(6): 700-704
Category: Case Report

Overview

A five-year case study of a male patient after subarachnoid haemorrhage and treatment of intracranial aneurysm using endovascular technique is presented. The patient was at risk of severe complications of subarachnoid haemorrhage. Nevertheless, the final outcome was judged as favourable. We select relevant psychological and health status information derived from three psychological assessments (14 days after surgery, one year later, five years later). Negative cognitive and emotional changes do not concur with predictions made by the neurosurgeons. This case study reveals a complicated long-term development with functional disability in the field of work (return to employment in 3–4 years) and an increase in interpersonal problems within the family. This case study demonstrates the difference between neurosurgical and psychological evaluations and stresses the importance of psychological examination and care in patients after subarachnoid haemorrhage.

Key words:
SAH – coiling – psychological assessment

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