What is Cerebral aneurysm coiling?
Cerebral coiling or endovascular coiling is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require an incision on the skull. However, it is carried out under general anesthesia. The procedure is performed with the aim to block the blood flow into the aneurysm. A catheter is placed into the artery through your groin or wrist in this technique. That catheter is guided into the brain and into the aneurysm. After reaching the aneurysm, a thin platinum coil is inserted into the aneurysm and detached. Multiple such coils are packed inside the aneurysm, blocking the blood flowing inside the aneurysm, leading to sealing off from the main artery. Over a period, a clot is formed inside the aneurysm, which prevents it from growing or rupturing.The coils remain permanently inside the aneurysm. They are safe and long term.
Why is Cerebral aneurysm coiling done?
It is an effective treatment for patients having ruptured or unruptured aneurysms. However, it is always done if the aneurysm has already ruptured. Case where bleeding has not occurred the coiling is done after assessing the bleeding risk which depends upon many factors like size/configuration of the aneurysm, age, co-morbidities, medications history etc.
Risks associated with Cerebral aneurysm coiling
Though the procedure is minimally invasive, it may cause some side effects. The complications associated with the procedure are infection, stroke, seizure, allergic reactions, and bleeding.
Post-surgery care
After the surgery, you may be shifted to the intensive care unit for further observation and monitoring. If the coiling is done for unruptured aneurysm the hospital stay might be of 3-4 days. If it is after bleeding has occurred then the hospital stay may extend to 10-14 days. The patient may feel mild tenderness in the groin or leg region. Your physician will provide you with specific detailed instructions regarding the post-surgery.
The following set of restrictions are be expected to be given by the surgeon:
- Do not consume alcohol as it causes thinning of blood, and you will be at risk of bleeding
- Do not smoke or use nicotine products
- Do not lift heavy objects or perform strenuous activities for the next three days
- Do not drive unless your surgeon says
- Drink plenty of water to flush out the contrast dye
- Take the prescribed medications on a timely basis
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