Understanding Brain Aneurysms
A brain aneurysm (also known as a cerebral aneurysm) is a weak or thin spot in a blood vessel in the brain that balloons out and fills with blood. If it ruptures, it can cause a subarachnoid hemorrhage (brain bleeding)—a life-threatening emergency.
Unruptured aneurysms may remain silent and are often discovered incidentally on brain scans. However, large or growing aneurysms can press on nerves or brain tissue, leading to neurological symptoms.
Types of Brain Aneurysms
- Saccular (Berry) Aneurysm: The most common type, forming a rounded sac on one side of the vessel.
- Fusiform Aneurysm: Bulges out on all sides of the vessel wall.
- Mycotic Aneurysm: Caused by infection in the vessel wall.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms depend on whether the aneurysm has ruptured or not.
Unruptured Aneurysm:
- Headaches or localized pain
- Blurred or double vision
- Dilated pupils
- Weakness or numbness in one side of the face
- Difficulty speaking or concentrating
Ruptured Aneurysm:
- Sudden, severe headache (“worst headache of life”)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Neck stiffness or light sensitivity
Diagnosis
Early detection and accurate imaging are critical. Diagnostic methods include:
- CT Scan / CT Angiography (CTA): Detects bleeding and aneurysm size or rupture.
- MRI / MRA: Provides detailed brain and vessel images.
- Cerebral Angiography (DSA): Gold standard for identifying aneurysm anatomy and planning treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to aneurysm size, location, rupture status, and patient condition. The goal is to prevent rupture or rebleeding while preserving normal brain function.
- Microsurgical Clipping: Open surgery to place a titanium clip at the aneurysm’s neck, permanently blocking blood flow into it.
- Endovascular Coiling: A minimally invasive technique where coils are inserted via catheter to fill the aneurysm and prevent rupture.
- Flow Diversion Stents: Used for complex or large aneurysms to redirect blood flow away from the weakened vessel.
- Observation: Small, stable, unruptured aneurysms may be monitored with periodic imaging.
Advanced Brain Aneurysm Care in Ahmedabad
At HCG Aastha Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, Dr. Chirag Panchal, Consultant Neurosurgeon, offers comprehensive management of brain aneurysms using both microsurgical and endovascular techniques. With advanced neuro-navigation and intraoperative monitoring, patients receive precise and safe treatment with optimal recovery outcomes.
When to Seek Immediate Help
- Sudden and severe headache
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures or confusion
- Vision or speech changes
