Brain Aneurysm - Cerebral Aneurysm

What are the treatments for the condition?

The best treatment for an aneurysm varies from person to person. Surgery to repair the aneurysm is quite risky. The American Heart Association, called the AHA, has issued guidelines for treatment of unruptured aneurysms.

The AHA guidelines advise the doctor to look at three factors when choosing the treatment plan:

Younger people are usually good candidates for surgery. For older persons with an unruptured aneurysm, the AHA guidelines recommend to wait and watch. The aneurysm can be monitored with regular cranial CT scans or cranial MRIs.

A craniotomy is a type of brain surgery that is used to repair an aneurysm. With the most common type, a metal clip is used to close off the aneurysm at its base. Medicines may be used to control high blood pressure or to treat problems with blood clotting.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects vary, depending on the treatment chosen. Medicines can cause allergic reactions and problems with blood clotting. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

Even if the person survives surgery, he or she can be left with permanent disabilities, including personality problems, weakness, or fatigue.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

A person with significant disabilities may need rehab therapy on a long-term basis. This may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.

How is the condition monitored?

If surgery resolves the aneurysm, a person may not need any more monitoring. However, someone who has major disabilities may need frequent visits to the doctor. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.