Aneurysm Coiling/Stenting

What it is:

Aneurysm coiling and stenting are minimally invasive procedures used to treat brain aneurysmsballoon-like bulges in blood vessels caused by weakened vessel walls. Coiling involves inserting platinum coils into the aneurysm via a catheter to promote clotting and seal it off. Stenting may be used to support coil placement or divert blood flow away from the aneurysm, especially in wide-necked or complex cases.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of a brain aneurysm that may require coiling or stenting include:

• Sudden, severe headache (often described as the worst headache ever)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blurred or double vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Neurological deficits like weakness, numbness, or speech difficulties
  These symptoms are often associated with a ruptured aneurysm, which is a medical emergency.

Treatment:

• Endovascular Coiling: A catheter is inserted through the groin and guided to the brain. Platinum coils are placed inside the aneurysm to block blood flow and promote clotting.
• Stent-Assisted Coiling: A mesh stent is placed in the parent artery to hold coils in place for wide-necked aneurysms.
• Balloon-Assisted Coiling: A temporary balloon is inflated to help position coils.
• Recovery: Most patients recover within a few weeks, with hospital stays typically lasting 1–3 days. Follow-up imaging is used to monitor for recurrence or complications.