[General and special indications for extra-intracranial bypass operations in the light of an international cooperative study].

The results of the International Cooperative Study on Extracranial-Intracranial Anastomosis (EIAB) are discussed in the light of previous experiences and recently published criticisms of the Study. Modern diagnostic approaches are discussed to define patients who are at high risk of suffering further symptoms due to a haemodynamic compromise, who might still benefit from EIAB. Discussion about optimal therapy for patients with symptoms of cerebral ischaemia should be continued.