Brain aneurysms typically develop at arterial junctions, where blood flow splits and exerts concentrated pressure, weakening the vessel wall. These aneurysms vary widely in size, ranging from as small as 2 millimeters to over 50 millimeters, and are most often diagnosed in individuals aged 40 to 70. Key risk factors include a family history of aneurysms, high blood pressure, and smoking, with those having a family history facing a fourfold increased risk compared to the general population.
While most aneurysms remain asymptomatic until rupture, larger ones or those pressing on neural tissue may cause symptoms such as vision impairment, dizziness, headaches, or sensory abnormalities. However, a rupture changes the situation dramatically. Dr. Hyun Joon Cho, a neurosurgeon at Korea University Guro Hospital, warns, “Sudden, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness, seizures, or paralysis can occur. If you experience an unusual, sudden headache, seek emergency care immediately.”
Evolving Treatment Options
The field of brain aneurysm treatment is advancing rapidly, offering patients new hope through innovative techniques. Traditionally, two primary approaches have been used. The first, called clipping, involves open brain surgery to place a metal clip on the aneurysm, sealing it off. This method boasts a low recurrence rate but is invasive and requires a longer recovery. The second, coil embolization, is a less invasive procedure where a catheter delivers tiny coils into the aneurysm to block blood flow. While this approach allows faster recovery, it carries a slightly higher risk of recurrence.
Other cutting-edge techniques are also gaining traction. Minimally invasive craniotomy, known as “mini-craniotomy,” reduces the size of the surgical incision. For large or complex aneurysms, flow-diversion stents redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm, promoting healing. Advanced approaches, such as balloon-assisted techniques, use a combination of balloons and stents to manage complex cases. Another breakthrough is the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device, which is placed inside the aneurysm to block blood flow without the need for stents. This method reduces the duration of antiplatelet medication and lowers bleeding risks.
Ongoing Care and Prevention
Treatment is not the end of the journey for brain aneurysm patients. Regular follow-up is critical due to the risk of recurrence or complications. Patients who undergo coil embolization or stent placement often require long-term antiplatelet therapy and periodic imaging to monitor their condition.
Equally important are lifestyle changes. Quitting smoking is essential, and careful management of blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol is critical. Alcohol, which can raise blood pressure, should be limited or avoided, and chronic conditions such as obesity must be managed.
Dr. Cho emphasizes the importance of early detection: “While we can’t entirely prevent brain aneurysms, identifying them before rupture can prevent devastating brain hemorrhages. If you have a family history of aneurysms, are a smoker, or have risk factors like hypertension, consider including brain vascular imaging in your routine health screenings.”
Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
