Flow-Diverting Stents
Flow-diverting stents enable the successful treatment of aneurysms that were previously considered difficult or high-risk to treat.
Conclusion
Endovascular aneurysm treatment methods accelerate the recovery process and reduce surgical risks. Each method has specific advantages and indications, and the most appropriate treatment option is determined based on the patient's individual condition. Today, endovascular treatments allow for the effective and safe management of brain aneurysms.
Open Surgical Methods:
Clipping: During open surgery, a metal clip is placed across the neck of the aneurysm to prevent it from filling with blood.
Post-Treatment Care and Follow-up
Post-Endovascular (Closed) Treatment Follow-Up:
Early Follow-Up:
- Hospital Stay: Patients are usually discharged within 2–3 days.
- Recovery: Most patients can return to their normal daily lives within a week after discharge.
- Medication: If a stent was used, patients must take blood-thinning medications. The use and dosage of these drugs are determined by the physician.
Long-Term Follow-Up:
- Follow-Up Angiographies: The first follow-up angiography is usually performed 6–12 months after treatment to evaluate its effectiveness. A second angiography is typically conducted after 2 years.
- MRI Compatibility: The materials used in endovascular treatment (stents, coils) are compatible with MRI scanners. Patients usually need not worry about MRI scans, though these materials may trigger false alarms at metal detectors.
- Symptoms and Complications:
- Groin Area: If pain or swelling in the groin area persists for more than one week after endovascular treatment, patients should consult their doctor.
Post-Open Surgical Treatment Follow-Up:
Early Follow-Up:
- Hospital Stay: The hospital stay usually lasts 7–8 days.
- Angiographic Follow-Up: A control angiography is performed within a week after surgery to confirm complete aneurysm closure.
Long-Term Follow-Up:
- Wound Healing: Full recovery of the surgical site may take 4–6 weeks.
- Follow-Up Angiographies: A second angiography is performed 1–2 years after surgery.
MRI Compatibility:
- Clips: Aneurysm clips made of titanium are MRI-compatible. However, older steel clips are not compatible with MRI, and patients treated with such clips must consult their physician before undergoing MRI scans.
Follow-Up After Treatment of a Ruptured Aneurysm:
Hospital Stay:
- Extended Observation: Hospitalization may last 4–5 weeks and can be extended depending on complications.
Monitoring for Complications:
- Complications: Conditions such as vasospasm (vessel spasm due to brain hemorrhage) and hydrocephalus (accumulation of fluid in the brain) should be monitored. These complications can lead to permanent disabilities and may require treatment.
- Seizures: Some patients may need to take anti-seizure medications after a ruptured aneurysm.
General Recommendations:
- Smoking and Alcohol: Do not smoke and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. These factors can increase the risk of aneurysm recurrence.
- Blood Pressure Control: It is important to keep hypertension under control. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly and medications prescribed by a physician.
- Regular Monitoring: Patients with polycystic kidney disease or those diagnosed with aneurysms at a young age should be monitored regularly with MR angiography.
The post-treatment monitoring process is critical for assessing the patient’s response to treatment, identifying potential complications, and ensuring long-term health. During this process, it is essential for patients to remain in regular contact with their doctors and follow the given instructions.
Risks and Complications
There may be risks and complications during the treatment process. While endovascular treatment generally carries lower risk, the risk of complications in open surgery may vary depending on the size and location of the aneurysm.
Conclusion
A brain aneurysm is a condition that can lead to serious health problems. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods, these risks can be effectively managed. Today, endovascular treatment methods offer successful outcomes in aneurysm management. Patients diagnosed with aneurysms should consult experienced healthcare professionals for treatment planning and pay attention to lifestyle changes.
These details are supported by medically verified information from specialist Dr. Ibadat Hasanov and are intended to inform individuals. In all cases, the treatment plan is personalized and carefully evaluated by your doctors.