A cerebral aneurysm is an outpouching of the wall of a brain artery. They are weak points akin to ablow out of a bicycle/car tyre. They are related to high blood pressure and smoking.

If a cerebral aneurysm bursts it can give rise to a condition called Subarachnoid Haemorrhage (SAH) which is a type of stroke. Patients who have a SAH have about a 60% chance of having a poor outcome.

Fortunately, most aneurysms that are found incidentally do not burst and require no treatment. The decision to treat or not treat is often very complex and requires an individual assessment of the patient and their aneurysm.

My approach to this condition is to review patients on a number of occasions to ensure that they have all the information they need to ensure they make the best decision them as an individual.

If we choose to embark on treatment then broadly speaking there are two methods to secure your aneurysm.

Endovascular (via a needle in the groin or wrist) or surgical (via a cut behind the hairline and a small window in the bone to access the spaces below the brain.

Each of these methods has advantages and disadvantages and the choice of treatment again, is very individualised and needs in-depth discussions in the outpatient department.