Advanced Stenting Technique Successfully Treats 55-Year-Old Patient with Large Brain Aneurysm

Mumbai: A 55-year-old woman from Powai, Mumbai, was successfully treated for a life-threatening brain aneurysm using a cutting-edge stenting technique at Apex Multi Speciality Hospital, Borivali. Vahida Bano experienced a sudden, severe headache, which she described as the worst she had ever felt, accompanied by repeated vomiting and eventual unconsciousness. She was initially taken to a nearby hospital but later transferred to Apex Multi Speciality Hospital under the care of Dr. Vivek Patel, a renowned neurosurgeon.

Upon admission, Dr. Patel recommended a CT scan, which revealed a subarachnoid hemorrhage caused by the rupture of an aneurysm in the posterior communicating artery (PComm). An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in a brain blood vessel, typically occurring when the vessel wall becomes weakened and expands outward. Dr. Patel explained that aneurysm ruptures can result in severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, strokes, and even death.

To gain further insights into the aneurysm's characteristics, Dr. Patel performed a four-vessel cerebral angiography (DSA), which confirmed the presence of a wide-necked PComm aneurysm. He outlined two potential treatment options: a craniotomy, which involves opening the skull to clip the aneurysm, or endovascular coiling, a minimally invasive procedure where coils or intravascular devices are placed within the aneurysm through a catheter inserted via the femoral artery.

Considering the aneurysm's wide neck, Dr. Patel decided to use an advanced intravascular device called "CONTOUR," which negates the need for a stent or flow diverter, common in traditional coiling procedures. The innovative device prevents coils from dislodging, providing a safer and more efficient treatment option. After detailed counseling and obtaining the patient’s consent, the endovascular procedure was performed successfully. The patient was closely monitored post-operatively and was discharged after three days, having made a smooth recovery.

Dr. Patel emphasized the importance of advanced infrastructure and expertise in treating complex brain aneurysms, highlighting that such procedures require precision and the latest technology to ensure the best outcomes. He added, "Aneurysms can lead to life-threatening brain bleeds, and it is advancements like these that make treatment safer and more effective, ultimately improving patient care."