An undetected brain aneurysm may lead to a stroke. After an aneurysm has been detected, many patients face radical craniotomy as a common treatment option. Neurosurgeons at Sierra Medical Center can now treat brain aneurysms using brain coiling, a less invasive procedure. Surgeons are using advanced treatment in the form of microcoils to fill in the aneurysm and help prevent a rupture.

This minimally invasive procedure is known as detachable coil embolization and it allows for treatment of cerebral aneurysms that in the past may have been considered inoperable. This procedure is not performed in the O.R. and requires less recovery time than open surgery for aneurysm repair. Either local or general anesthesia can be used to for this procedure.

When an aneurysm ruptures, internal bleeding may cause a stroke or loss of life. In less severe cases, a bulging aneurysm may compress surrounding nerves and brain tissue resulting in nerve paralysis, headache, neck and upper back pain. The onset of bleeding from a ruptured brain aneurysm is usually sudden and without warning. It involves bleeding in the brain or in the area surrounding the brain that causes an accumulation of blood, usually clotted, within the skull.

The procedure starts when a tube, called a catheter, is inserted through an artery in the leg. This catheter is then maneuvered through the body to the aneurysm's position. Once in position, the neurosurgeon places one or more small coils through the catheter into the aneurysm. The body responds by forming a blood clot around the coil that strengthens the weak spot in the artery. Plugging the weak, bulging section of the artery or fistula stops blood flow to the affected area and eliminates the risk for rupture. The coils are designed to remain anchored within the aneurysm or fistula and do not require eventual removal. Depending upon the size of the aneurysm, coils of different diameters and lengths may be selected. For more information please call the Sierra Providence Health Network Consumer Information Line at 577-6000.