Back

What's an aneurysm and how is it treated? My brother just called to say his wife has this problem. He was so upset, he couldn't explain anything to me.

An aneurysm is an abnormal thinning and dilation (or ballooning) of a blood vessel. It can occur wherever major blood vessels are located. Major arteries in the brain and the aorta (major blood vessel from the heart down to the legs) are two of the most common places aneurysms occur. Ninety-five per cent (95%) of aortic aneurysms occur just below the renal artery (to the kidney). This type of aneurysm is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Risk factors for aneurysms include obesity, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and trauma. Many people are born with a congenital aneurysm. They don't know they have an aneurysm until they either develop sudden symptoms or it's found when imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs are done for some other reason. Aneurysms aren't always treated. Studies show that the mortality (death) rate is just as high with surgery as without. A brain (cerebral) aneurysm can cause a stroke if it bursts. Surgery is more likely for this type of aneurysm. When surgery is done, the aneurysm is removed and the blood vessel is repaired. A metal clip is placed around the base of the aneurysm. Sometimes coil embolization is done. Using a catheter, the surgeon inserts small, flexible microcoils into the aneurysm. The body responds by forming a blood clot around the coil blocking off the aneurysm. The coils can also be used as packing to fill the aneurysm, thus preventing a rupture. When things settle down, you may want to find out where your sister-in-law's aneurysm is located. Once you know this, it will be easier to get information about the treatment and prognosis. Many advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of aneurysms in the last 10 years. We hope your family member will have a successful outcome.

« Back