Surgical ClippingOne or more clips is placed on the neck of the aneurysm to cut blood flow (Figure 2). The clip remains in the patient permanently. Usually, aneurysms that are completely clipped do not return.
Figure 2A clipped aneurysm
Endovascular EmbolisationA less invasive procedure, a small plastic tube (microcatheter) is inserted and guided to the aneurysm. Platinum coils are passed through the microcatheter and placed in the aneurysm. The coil fills the aneurysm, inducing a blood clot (Figure 3). Regular follow-up is needed to see if the aneurysm recurs.
Figure 3An aneurysm coil
Both methods help prevent future rupture or re-bleeding.
The prognosis is dependent on the patient's age and health, severity of bleeding and re-bleeding. Recovery may take weeks to months.
Patients with very small aneurysms may be monitored. For aneurysms which have yet to rupture, the neurosurgeon will consider the type, size and location of the aneurysm, patient’s age and health condition, family history and risks of treatment. Patients who receive treatment for an unruptured aneurysm generally recover more quickly.
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