A brain aneurysm is a bulge that develops in the wall of an artery in the brain.
Some aneurysms are discovered before they cause symptoms, during examinations performed for other reasons. Others may be identified after rupturing, which causes bleeding around the brain and represents a medical emergency.
Not every aneurysm carries the same level of risk. Size, shape, location, family history, clinical conditions and signs of growth are among the factors considered during the evaluation.
Most unruptured aneurysms may not cause any symptoms.
When nearby structures are compressed, symptoms may include headache, visual changes, double vision, a drooping eyelid, pain around the eyes or other neurological manifestations.
A rupture usually causes a sudden and extremely severe headache. Nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, seizures or loss of consciousness may also occur.
In the event of a sudden and severe headache, especially when accompanied by neurological symptoms, immediate emergency medical care is required.
The evaluation considers the patient’s medical history, symptoms and imaging results.
CT angiography, MR angiography and cerebral angiography may be used to assess the anatomy of the aneurysm, its relationship with nearby blood vessels and the characteristics of cerebral circulation.
Cerebral angiography may provide detailed information for planning surgical or endovascular treatment.
Some aneurysms may be monitored through periodic imaging and management of risk factors. In other cases, treatment may be recommended to reduce the risk of rupture or to manage an aneurysm that has already caused bleeding.
Treatment options may include surgical clipping or endovascular procedures performed using catheter-based techniques.
Endovascular techniques include embolization and, in selected cases, the placement of a flow-diverting stent. The choice depends on the aneurysm’s anatomy and location, as well as the patient’s clinical condition.
There is no single approach that is appropriate for every aneurysm. The decision should be based on a careful assessment of the potential benefits and risks.
Receiving a diagnosis of a brain aneurysm may cause uncertainty, even when it is discovered incidentally.
A specialized evaluation makes it possible to understand the characteristics of the aneurysm, determine whether treatment is indicated and establish a safe monitoring plan when immediate intervention is not necessary.
Contact Neuro & Coluna Rio to schedule an evaluation.
