Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysm – Microsurgical Clipping
Rupture of an intracranial aneurysm is a severe and sudden medical emergency that causes subarachnoid hemorrhage around the brain. It requires immediate hospital care and highly specialized neurosurgical management in order to prevent rebleeding and permanent neurological injury.
Symptoms
The hallmark symptom is the “worst headache of your life,” with sudden, thunderclap onset. It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, photophobia, neck stiffness, confusion, loss of consciousness, or focal neurological deficits. Any such episode requires immediate medical evaluation.
How is the diagnosis made?
- CT scan of the brain — rapid and highly sensitive
- Angiography (CTA or DSA) — identifies aneurysm location and morphology
- Lumbar puncture when CT is negative but clinical suspicion remains high
Treatment options
The goal is immediate and definitive exclusion of the aneurysm from the circulation to prevent rebleeding. This can be achieved by:
- Endovascular embolization (coiling, stent-assisted techniques)
- Microsurgical clipping — open surgical approach
The choice depends on the aneurysm’s shape, anatomy, size, and location, as well as the patient’s age and overall clinical condition.
When is microsurgery preferred?
- Large or complex aneurysms
- Wide-necked aneurysms
- Involvement of branching or perforating arteries
- Large associated hematomas requiring urgent decompression
- Younger patients with good neurological status
For more information about the procedure, see: Microsurgical clipping (craniotomy & clipping)
Recovery & prognosis
Hospitalization takes place in a neurosurgical intensive care unit, with close monitoring for vasospasm, hydrocephalus, and neurological changes. Many patients return to functional and active lives, particularly when treatment is delivered promptly in a specialized center.
Can it be prevented?
- Smoking cessation
- Blood pressure control
- Avoidance of excessive alcohol consumption
- Genetic screening in individuals with a family history
Frequently asked questions
Is it always fatal?
No — with timely treatment at a specialized center, survival and functional recovery rates are significantly improved.
Will I need surgery?
In most aneurysm ruptures, either microsurgical or endovascular treatment is required to prevent rebleeding.
When can I return to work?
This depends on the type of treatment and clinical course — typically from several weeks to a few months.
Have you been diagnosed with a ruptured aneurysm?
The Neuroknife team provides immediate, specialized, and personalized care at leading neurosurgical centers.
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