The treatment decisions for aneurysms are made based on the size, location and shape of the aneurysm as well as the patient’s symptoms and general health. Treatment of aneurysms currently consists of three main options:

Short and long-term monitoring without operating
Microsurgical Clipping (Clipping)
Endovascular Coiling (Coiling) – also called Microcoil Thrombosis

The term endovascular (within the vasculature or blood circulation system) refers to the coiling as a less invasive procedure, i.e. you access the aneurysm through the natural body channels, the arteries, rather than opening the head by surgically going through skin, bone and other tissue.

Careful consideration should be given to all treatment options, which necessitates consulting with at least the following two specialists:

A cerebrovascular neurosurgeon (specializes in surgical clipping)
Interventional neuroradiologist/endovascular surgeon (specializes in endovascular coiling)

These two medical experts have different training and backgrounds; it is highly recommended to speak to both before proceeding with a treatment plan. Additionally, one can consult with a neurologist, a brain specialist, who does not perform operations but can advise you on treatment options.

Ruptured Brain Aneurysm Treatment

A ruptured aneurysm (patient has already experienced a subarachnoid hemorrhage, SAH), generally requires treatment as soon as possible due to the high re-bleeding rate. Treatment options of the SAH patient are the same procedures (coiling and clipping) as for unruptured aneurysm, however, the decision is made by the attending physician as the patient is often unconscious or unable to participate in the decision-making. Treatment time and option decisions are made based on similar criteria: size, location and shape of the aneurysm and the added factors of the hemorrhage as well as the patient’s overall medical condition.

One caution the family of a ruptured aneurysm patient might want to take at this juncture is to ensure that both an interventional radiologist and a neurosurgeon consult over the case as time and the patient’s condition permit. In some cases either technique could be used, and the recommendation on how to proceed will be influenced by a number of considerations including, the age and condition of the patient and the experience and skills of the attending physicians.

To learn more about specific treatments, procedures, and care, go to: