3-rx.comCustomer Support
3-rx.com
   
HomeAbout UsFAQContactHelp
News Center
Health Centers
Medical Encyclopedia
Drugs & Medications
Diseases & Conditions
Medical Symptoms
Med. Tests & Exams
Surgery & Procedures
Injuries & Wounds
Diet & Nutrition
Special Topics



\"$alt_text\"');"); } else { echo"\"$alt_text\""; } ?>






You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Cerebral Aneurysm: Treatment & Monitoring
      Category : Health Centers > Brain and Nervous System

Cerebral Aneurysm

Alternate Names : Brain Aneurysm

Cerebral Aneurysm | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the condition?

The best treatment for an aneurysm varies from person to person. Surgery to repair the aneurysm is quite risky. The American Heart Association, called the AHA, has issued guidelines for treatment of unruptured aneurysms.

The AHA guidelines advise the doctor to look at three factors when choosing the treatment plan:

  • the size of the aneurysm
  • the person's age
  • the person's life expectancy
  • Younger people are usually good candidates for surgery. For older persons with an unruptured aneurysm, the AHA guidelines recommend to wait and watch. The aneurysm can be monitored with regular cranial CT scans or cranial MRIs.

    A craniotomy is a type of brain surgery that is used to repair an aneurysm. With the most common type, a metal clip is used to close off the aneurysm at its base. Medicines may be used to control high blood pressure or to treat problems with blood clotting.

    What are the side effects of the treatments?

    Side effects vary, depending on the treatment chosen. Medicines can cause allergic reactions and problems with blood clotting. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

    Even if the person survives surgery, he or she can be left with permanent disabilities, including personality problems, weakness, or fatigue.

    What happens after treatment for the condition?

    A person with significant disabilities may need rehab therapy on a long-term basis. This may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.

    How is the condition monitored?

    If surgery resolves the aneurysm, a person may not need any more monitoring. However, someone who has major disabilities may need frequent visits to the doctor. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.


    Previous section

     

    Next section

    Cerebral Aneurysm: Prevention & Expectations

     

    Author: James Warson, MD
    Reviewer: Kathleen A. MacNaughton, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 10/17/02



    \"$alt_text\"');"); } else { echo"\"$alt_text\""; } ?>





    Home | About Us | FAQ | Contact | Advertising Policy | Privacy Policy | Bookmark Site