What are the surgical interventions like clipping or coiling, and how do they prevent aneurysm rupture?
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Surgical interventions like clipping and coiling are common procedures used to treat brain aneurysms and prevent them from rupturing. Here’s a detailed explanation of each procedure and how they work to prevent aneurysm rupture:
Aneurysm Clipping
Procedure:
Clipping involves performing an open craniotomy, where the surgeon makes an incision in the skull to access the brain.
The surgeon then places a small metal clip across the neck of the aneurysm, which is the base of the bulge. This clip effectively seals off the aneurysm from the blood flow, preventing it from rupturing.
How It Prevents Rupture:
By clipping the neck of the aneurysm, blood flow into the aneurysm is stopped, which prevents the weakened area from expanding and eventually bursting. This method is particularly effective for aneurysms that have not yet ruptured but are at high risk of doing so.
Aneurysm Coiling (Endovascular Coiling)
Procedure:
Coiling is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require opening the skull. Instead, a catheter is inserted into an artery, usually in the groin, and threaded up to the brain.
Once the catheter reaches the aneurysm, tiny platinum coils are inserted into the aneurysm sac. These coils fill the aneurysm and promote blood clotting within it, which seals off the aneurysm from the blood flow.
How It Prevents Rupture:
The coils inside the aneurysm cause blood to clot, which seals off the aneurysm and prevents it from growing or rupturing. This method is often preferred for patients who are not ideal candidates for open surgery due to other health conditions.
Comparison and Effectiveness
Clipping is typically used for aneurysms that are accessible and have not yet ruptured. It is a more invasive procedure but offers a permanent solution by physically closing off the aneurysm.
Coiling is less invasive and has a shorter recovery time, making it suitable for patients who may not be able to undergo open surgery. However, it may require follow-up procedures to ensure the aneurysm remains sealed.
Both procedures are effective in preventing aneurysm rupture, but the choice between them depends on various factors, including the size and location of the aneurysm, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's expertise.
What are the surgical interventions like clipping or coiling, and how do they prevent aneurysm rupture?