Brain aneurysms are the bulging or ballooning of blood vessels supplying the brain. They affect 1-2% of the population, with higher prevalence among individuals aged 40-60 years.
- Headaches
- Double vision
The most serious complication is the rupture of the aneurysm, leading to severe sudden headaches and immediate death in 20% of cases. In the remaining cases, it can cause debilitating haemorrhagic stroke if left untreated.
- Family history
- Smoking
- Hypertension
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Age over 50 years
A brain aneurysm can be diagnosed using a simple CT or MRI scan.
Treating brain aneurysms before they rupture is crucial. Here are the treatments we offer:
Balloon or stent-assisted coiling: Coiling with the assistance of a balloon or stent. Coiling is a minimally invasive technique involving the insertion of coils into the aneurysm. Flow diverter stent: Using a special stent to treat the aneurysm.
The procedure requires a small incision in the groin to access a blood vessel. Small catheters and wires are then put through the incision and directed to the brain to block off the aneurysm.
Treatment time and length of recovery period are shorter compared to open surgery (1-2 days for unruptured aneurysms).
Case Study 1
The patient was diagnosed with a left para-ophthalmic brain aneurysm.
A cerebral angiogram was conducted to visualise the aneurysm. A flow diverter device was then used to treat the aneurysm in the left internal carotid artery.
The aneurysm was successfully treated and check MRI due 3 months later showed the aneurysm to have resolved.
Case Study 2
Patient presents with a giant basilar artery aneurysm.
Treating brain aneurysms before they rupture is crucial. On this occasion, a minimally invasive technique was used, and coils were inserted into the aneurysm, blocking off blood flow. A stent was also placed for additional support to the blood vessels.
The aneurysm was successfully treated with coiling and stenting.
