An arterial aneurysm, also commonly referred to as an aneurysm, is a swelling of the blood vessels in the brain caused by a weakness in the wall of these cerebral arteries. While in some cases it may not cause significant symptoms for those affected, it is highly dangerous as it can escalate and lead to a rupture of the vessels, resulting in internal bleeding that may culminate in a stroke. Therefore, early intervention for effective and prompt treatment is crucial. Here, aneurysm surgeries play a vital role as an effective treatment option, and they are among the top services offered at the center of Prof. Dr. Yousry Anwar El-Hamili, Professor of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery at Cairo University Medical School. Here are the details:
Types of Arterial Aneurysms
Before delving into aneurysm surgeries, let’s take a quick look at the types of aneurysms. An aneurysm can occur at any age and appears in various forms:
- Saccular Aneurysm
- The most common type of aneurysm, it is a round, blood-filled sac that protrudes from one side of the main artery in the brain, resembling a berry hanging from a branch.
- Fusiform Aneurysm
- This type involves a swelling that affects all sides of the artery.
- Infected Aneurysm
- This type occurs due to fungal or viral infections of the brain’s arteries, leading to a weakened artery wall and subsequent swelling.
Diagnosis of Arterial Aneurysms
Doctors diagnose aneurysms through various tests and procedures:
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
- A CT scan uses X-rays to capture two-dimensional cross-sectional images of the brain, helping doctors identify the aneurysm’s condition. Sometimes, a contrast dye is injected to better visualize blood flow.
- Lumbar Puncture
- This test is used when arteries do not appear clearly on a CT scan. A cerebrospinal fluid sample is taken via lumbar puncture to diagnose the condition more accurately.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- MRI captures more detailed images of blood vessels, either in two-dimensional or three-dimensional forms, revealing the aneurysm’s size and location.
- Angiography
- This procedure involves inserting a flexible catheter through a large artery from the heart to the brain, through which a special dye is injected to reach the brain’s arteries. Angiography is used when other tests fail to provide a precise diagnosis.
Aneurysm Surgeries
Treating an aneurysm requires surgery to repair the dilated blood vessels. There are several techniques for aneurysm surgeries:
- Open Aneurysm Surgery (Clipping)
- Open surgery involves a more invasive approach to seal the dilated blood vessels. The surgeon:
- Makes an incision in the skull to access the affected area.
- Identifies the artery feeding the aneurysm.
- Attaches a small metal clip to prevent blood flow to the aneurysm.
- Strengthens the artery wall to prevent further rupture.
- Closes the artery.
- Recovery from open aneurysm surgery typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, varying based on the case’s complexity.
- Endovascular Aneurysm Surgery (Endovascular Coiling)
- This less invasive surgery involves:
- Making small incisions to insert a small plastic tube (catheter) into the brain’s arteries via the femoral artery.
- Using coils or stents:
- Coils are platinum spirals placed inside the aneurysm to induce blood clotting.
- Stents are small tubes used to support the artery wall and prevent blood flow into the aneurysm.
- Flow Diversion
- A modern technique involving the placement of a stent in the affected blood vessel to redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm, promoting the formation of new cells to close the aneurysm. This method is ideal for treating large aneurysms unsuitable for other surgeries.
Medical Treatment for Aneurysms
Post-surgery, patients need medications to prevent complications and symptoms, such as:
- Calcium Channel Blockers
- These drugs reduce blood vessel contractions, promoting dilation to prevent strokes or reduced blood flow.
- Pain Relievers
- To alleviate postoperative pain.
Patients may also require physical and rehabilitation therapy if motor or cognitive functions are affected. In cases of seizures, doctors may prescribe antiepileptic drugs to reduce or prevent seizures.
Choosing the Best Doctor for Aneurysm Surgeries
Prof. Dr. Yousry Anwar El-Hamili, a leading specialist in aneurysm surgeries, offers:
- Extensive experience in various brain surgeries, including aneurysm surgeries.
- Utilization of the latest techniques and equipment for optimal surgical outcomes.
- Comprehensive medical care from diagnosis to post-surgery recovery.
- Strict adherence to sterilization standards to protect patients from infections.
Conclusion
If you suffer from an arterial aneurysm, the center of Prof. Dr. Yousry Anwar El-Hamili offers the best care with a high success rate. Contact us for a precise diagnosis and the appropriate surgical treatment for your condition, ensuring the best possible results and patient safety.
