The standardized protocol at our NIC unit, which is well described previously (6, 11), is based on intensive physiological monitoring and aggressive therapy of any derangement to avoid or minimize secondary brain injury. Unconscious patients are mechanically ventilated and receive a ventriculostomy. If ICP is above 20 mmHg, the drainage system is opened and cerebrospinal fluid drained against a pressure level of 15 mmHg. Hypotension is treated first with albumin 20% and crystalloid solutions, and with Dobutamine (Algol Pharma AB, Kista, Sweden) if needed. The goal is to keep CPP above 60 mmHg. Identified aneurysms are treated early by endovascular coiling or surgical clipping. All patients receive nimodipine (Nimotop®, Bayer AB, Solna, Sweden).