Clipping of Aneurysms

A brain aneurysm is a weakened area in a blood vessel that bulges out due to increased pressure, potentially leading to a life-threatening rupture. When an aneurysm ruptures, it causes a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), which can result in severe brain damage or even death. Clipping of aneurysms is a well-established surgical treatment that effectively prevents rupture by securing the weakened blood vessel.

What is Clipping of Aneurysms?

Aneurysm clipping is an open surgical procedure performed by a vascular neurosurgeon to prevent a brain aneurysm from rupturing or to stop further bleeding in the case of a rupture. The procedure involves:

• Accessing the aneurysm through a small opening in the skull (craniotomy).

• Placing a tiny metal clip at the neck of the aneurysm to block blood flow.

• Preventing rupture or re-bleeding by isolating the aneurysm from circulation.

Once clipped, the aneurysm shrinks and heals over time, significantly reducing the risk of future complications. This technique has been widely used for decades and remains one of the most effective and durable treatments for brain aneurysms.

Benefits of Clipping of Aneurysms

• Permanent Solution: The aneurysm is securely closed off, preventing future rupture.

• Highly Effective: Long-term studies show excellent success rates with minimal recurrence.

• Lower Risk of Re-Bleeding: Especially crucial for patients with ruptured aneurysms.

• Preserves Normal Blood Flow: The metal clip does not interfere with adjacent blood vessels.

Although minimally invasive endovascular procedures like coiling are available, clipping remains a preferred option for specific aneurysm types and patient conditions.

When is Clipping of Aneurysms Recommended?

Aneurysm clipping is recommended in the following cases:

• Ruptured Aneurysms: When an aneurysm has already burst, causing a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

• Unruptured Aneurysms: If the aneurysm is large, irregular in shape, or at high risk of rupture.

• Aneurysms Not Suitable for Coiling: Some aneurysms, particularly those with wide necks or complex locations, are better treated with clipping.

• Younger Patients: Clipping is often preferred for younger patients due to its long-term durability.

Your neurosurgeon will evaluate multiple factors, including aneurysm size, location, and overall health, to determine the best treatment approach.

Diagnosis and Treatment Process

Diagnosis: A thorough evaluation is performed to confirm the presence, size, and risk of an aneurysm. This typically involves:

• Neurological Examination: To assess symptoms like headaches, vision changes, or neurological deficits.

• Imaging Studies

  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: Detects bleeding in the brain.

  • CT Angiography (CTA) or Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): Provides detailed images of blood vessels.

  • Cerebral Angiogram: A gold-standard test to precisely map aneurysm anatomy.

Treatment Process:

• Pre-Surgical Planning: Detailed imaging is used to plan the safest surgical approach.

• Craniotomy: A small section of the skull is temporarily removed to access the aneurysm.

• Clipping the Aneurysm: A titanium clip is placed at the aneurysm neck to block blood flow.

• Closure and Recovery: The skull is secured, and patients are monitored in the ICU for early recovery.

• Follow-Up and Rehabilitation: Regular imaging is performed to ensure long-term success.

Conclusion

Aneurysm clipping is a proven, effective, and durable surgical treatment for preventing and managing brain aneurysms. While less invasive techniques like coiling are available, clipping remains the gold standard for complex or high-risk aneurysms. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more.