There are various types of aneurysms.
The 3 types of brain aneurysms include.
1. Saccular brain aneurysms (the most common)
2. Fusiform brain aneurysms
3. Mycotic brain aneurysms
The 4 types of aortic aneurysms that we see in practice commonly are:
1. Abdominal aortic aneurysms
2. Thoracic aortic aneurysms
3. Thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysms
4. Aortic dissections/ Dissecting aortic aneurysms
Understanding Aneurysm Types
Aneurysms are a complex condition and can be found in many areas of the body. Oftentimes, they require expert care and attention from various medical disciplines in cardiovascular, vascular, and neurovascular medicine as well as neurointerventional professionals. Aneurysm causes, symptoms, and types vary and contain many nuances that medical doctors must consider before coming up with a treatment plan.
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Common Questions About Types of Brain Aneurysms
What are the different types of brain aneurysms?
Brain aneurysms can be classified based on their shape, location and how they develop.
The main types include:
Saccular aneurysm (berry aneurysm)
This is the most common type of brain aneurysm.
It appears as a small rounded bulge that forms along the side of an artery. Saccular aneurysms commonly occur at branching points of arteries where blood flow pressure is higher.
Fusiform aneurysm
A fusiform aneurysm involves widening of an entire section of an artery rather than forming a single pouch-like bulge.
These aneurysms may affect a longer segment of the blood vessel and can have different treatment considerations compared with saccular aneurysms.
Dissecting aneurysm
A dissecting aneurysm occurs when a tear develops within the layers of an artery wall, allowing blood to enter and separate the vessel layers.
This may affect blood flow and requires specialist assessment.
What is the most common type of brain aneurysm?
The most common type of brain aneurysm is a saccular aneurysm, also known as a berry aneurysm.
These aneurysms typically occur at arterial branching points within the brain and account for the majority of intracranial aneurysms.
However, the risk associated with an aneurysm depends on more than its type. Specialists also consider:
- Size
- Location
- Shape
- Growth over time
- Previous rupture history
- Patient-specific risk factors
Where do brain aneurysms usually occur?
Brain aneurysms can develop in different arteries supplying the brain.
Common locations include:
- Anterior communicating artery (ACoA)
- Internal carotid artery (ICA)
- Middle cerebral artery (MCA)
- Posterior communicating artery (PCoA)
- Basilar artery and other posterior circulation arteries
The location of an aneurysm is important because it influences:
- Rupture risk assessment
- Treatment planning
- Choice of procedure
Are all brain aneurysms dangerous?
Not all brain aneurysms rupture.
Many unruptured aneurysms are discovered incidentally during imaging performed for another reason.
Whether an aneurysm requires treatment depends on several factors, including:
- Aneurysm size
- Location
- Shape
- Growth pattern
- Patient age
- Family history
- Previous bleeding history
- Overall health
Some aneurysms may be monitored with regular imaging, while others may require treatment to reduce future risk.
A specialist assessment helps determine the most appropriate approach.
What is the difference between a brain aneurysm and an AVM?
Both conditions involve abnormal blood vessels in the brain, but they are different.
| Condition | Brain Aneurysm | Brain AVM |
|---|---|---|
| Main abnormality | Weakness and bulging of an artery wall | Abnormal connection between arteries and veins |
| Blood vessels involved | Usually an artery | Arteries and veins |
| Main concern | Rupture causing bleeding around the brain | Abnormal blood flow and potential brain bleeding |
| Common treatments | Coiling, flow diversion, clipping or monitoring | Embolisation, surgery, radiosurgery or monitoring |
Both conditions require assessment by specialists experienced in neurovascular care.
What is an Aneurysm?
Aneurysms can occur in any area of the body, with the most common location being the body's largest artery, the aorta (aortic aneurysm). They form when the wall of a blood vessel becomes weak and starts to enlarge, growing slowly throughout the years. They take a fusiform-like shape and are typically 11 millimeters in diameter, with larger ones reaching up to 25 millimeters. The majority of aneurysms have no symptoms and occur due to various causes, although sometimes are unknown.
AA is more common than many people may think. Keep reading to learn more in our "Aortic Aneurysm: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments". Left untreated, it may grow larger over time.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Being the largest blood vessel in the body, the aorta has a critical job. It is responsible for transporting oxygen-rich blood from your heart to the rest of your body. It is comprised of several important sections: the aortic root, ascending aorta, aortic arch, descending thoracic aorta, and the abdominal aorta. Symptoms are typically mild, if felt at all, but can include deep abdominal and back pain or the feeling of a pulse near your belly button.
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
Similar to an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a thoracic aneurysm occurs in the wall of the aorta in the chest area, rather stomach. Much like all aneurysms, they are mostly asymptomatic and usually detected when being treated for other conditions. In rare cases, you may experience a sharp pain in between shoulder blades.
Learn more about the conditions we treat linked to aortic aneurysm from our peripheral arterial disease overview. Pain and limitations caused by PAD and aortic aneurysm can disrupt your life. Stay ahead of these with specialized care from Dr. Manish Taneja at Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic.
Cerebral Aneurysm
Cerebral, or brain, aneurysms are another common type of aneurysm and are prevalent in approximately 3.2% of the world's population with certain demographics experiencing higher probabilities than others. Patients who harbor brain aneurysms rarely have symptoms unless they rupture. Aneurysms are capable of causing clots which cut off blood flow to the brain ultimately resulting in a stroke.
What is a brain aneurysm? The Ultimate Guide to Brain Aneurysm post can help you learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this potentially life-threatening condition.
What are the Different Types of Brain Aneurysms?
1. Saccular Aneurysm
A saccular aneurysm is the most common type of aneurysm. They are often referred to as a "berry" aneurysm due to its shape and the fact that it sticks out the side of a blood vessel, much like a berry off a stem. They are the leading cause of stroke in young people when it bursts. Understand more about stroke essentials on our blog post, “Stroke Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment”.
2. Fusiform Aneurysm
A fusiform aneurysm is less common and balloons the blood vessel on all sides. They usually occur after a vessel injury and can be more difficult to diagnose and treat. Although they rarely rupture, it is important to monitor them because they are capable of growing.
3. Mycotic Aneurysm
Even more rare are the mycotic aneurysms which develop due to a bacterial infection that started elsewhere in the body. The infection spreads through the blood stream with the possibility of multiple arising. They are treated with antibiotics or surgery.
We provide care and treatment options at our specialized brain aneurysm clinic at Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic in Singapore.
Aneurysm Diagnosis
Aneurysms are typically not something that people are born with, however, those with underlying conditions such as arteriovenous malformations, kidney disease, or other genetic syndromes may have a higher risk of developing them. Most aneurysms are detected through medical imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, or even x-rays. Once an aneurysm bursts, it can be life threatening.
Aneurysm Treatment
If an aneurysm that hasn't burst is detected, your doctor will complete a thorough medical evaluation. They will consider the size, location, and symptoms of the aneurysm before suggesting surgery. Along with monitoring it closely, they may prescribe certain medications the help improve blood flow or lower blood pressure, to prevent it from growing. If the aneurysm scan shows an especially large mass or it bursts, they will perform surgery.
Aneurysm Prevention and Management
Aneurysms can be unpredictable and unruptured ones are quite common. While there's no actual cure, maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle may help prevent them from growing or bursting. Additionally, several factors may contribute to the risk of getting one. These include:
- Cigarette smoking
- Head trauma
- High blood pressure
- Being over the age of 40
- Drug and alcohol use
- Family and personal medical history
- Obesity
- Underlying diseases
When to Consider a Brain Aneurysm Specialist Assessment in Singapore
A brain aneurysm diagnosis can raise important questions about rupture risk, monitoring and treatment options. Because every aneurysm has different characteristics, specialist evaluation is important to understand the most appropriate management approach.
Consider seeking specialist assessment if you:
- Have been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm through CT, MRI or angiography.
- Have an unruptured aneurysm and want to understand your treatment options.
- Have been advised to consider treatment such as coiling, flow diversion or surgical clipping.
- Have concerns about aneurysm growth or rupture risk.
- Have a family history of brain aneurysms.
- Have experienced symptoms suggestive of a neurological condition.
- Want a second opinion regarding your aneurysm diagnosis or treatment plan.
At the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, assessment involves reviewing detailed brain and vascular imaging to understand the aneurysm’s size, location, shape and risk factors. Your specialist will discuss whether observation, minimally invasive endovascular treatment or another approach may be appropriate based on your individual situation.
Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience a sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, new weakness, difficulty speaking, seizures or sudden neurological symptoms, as these may indicate a ruptured brain aneurysm.
Find the Best Treatment with Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic
Dr. Manish Taneja at Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic will provide comprehensive care for individuals who are at risk of or have had aneurysms. From neurointerventional treatment to cancer treatments, he is dedicated to providing quality care to patients in the Singapore area. He has the special expertise and experience needed to give you a proper diagnosis and treatment for your aortic aneurysm. This will also go a long way towards lowering the chance of rupture and improving your quality of life.
Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Options
Dr. Manish Taneja knows the seriousness and potential risks associated with aortic aneurysms. The Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic develops a comprehensive care plan that prioritizes your safety and well-being towards a healthier, stronger heart.
When an aneurysm is small, periodic check-up with US or CT scan is required for monitoring. Once it becomes large in size, or is rapidly growing, it is at high risk of bursting needing treatment.
There are two types of treatment for AA:
• Open surgical repair
• Endovascular or minimally invasive repair using special covered stents called stent grafts
Stent grafts are much less invasive and safer treatment option. The procedure involves introducing the stent graft through a 1 cm incision in the groin without opening the abdomen.
Discover aortic aneurysm treatment options and the aortic aneurysm advances in our practice we offer at the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic. If you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to arrange an appointment.
Brain Aneurysm Treatment Options
Brain aneurysm is a weak or thin spot on an artery in the brain that balloons or bulges out and fills with blood. The bulging aneurysm can put increased pressure on the nerves or brain tissue. It may also burst or rupture, spilling blood into the surrounding tissue (called a hemorrhage). Brain aneurysm is a fully treatable and curable condition. The best time to treat is before it ruptures. Traditional treatment method of open surgery called clipping is largely replaced in majority of patients with minimally invasive endovascular technique called coiling. This technique involves a 5 mm incision in the groin or wrist to get into a blood vessel. Through this, multiple small tubes called catheters and wires are advanced into the brain and the aneurysm is completely blocked from inside. No open surgery to skull is required with quicker treatment and recovery.
Dr. Manish Taneja, our brain aneurysm specialist at Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, specializes in minimally invasive procedures for conditions such as brain aneurysm. We offer specialized care, prompt attention, and access to advanced imaging technology and procedures.
Discover brain aneurysm treatment options at the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic and make informed decisions about surgery, endovascular procedures, or ongoing monitoring.
In conclusion, understanding brain aneurysms and seeking proper consultation are vital steps in managing this condition. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Take charge of your health and explore treatment options. Arrange an easy appointment.
Read More About Neurointerventional and Vascular Treatments on Our Blog
To dive deeper into the types of neurointerventional treatments, head over to our clinic’s blog.
Read our recommended neurointerventional and vascular treatments related blog posts to stay informed.
Brain Aneurysm Resources
Put Brain Aneurysm on Your Health Radar
Did you experience the worst headache of your life? Thoughts could be racing through your mind. A brain aneurysm is a weak spot in a blood vessel in the brain that can change over time. The key concern is when an aneurysm ruptures, which can disrupt blood flow, affect brain tissue, and lead to serious brain damage. Controllable conditions like high blood pressure can increase this risk and treatment options can depend on the condition. Surgical clipping is one option that prevents blood from entering the weakened area. In many cases, minimally invasive treatments can also be used to restore normal blood flow and reduce risk. We have created structured guides to help you explore each stage in more detail:
A simple (computed tomography) CT scan could be just what the doctor ordered and the first step in early detection and prevention of a brain aneurysm. Come in for an easy consultation with our brain aneurysm specialist in Singapore to be on your health radar.
Other Health Conditions
The Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic is your "go-to" facility for various neurological and vascular conditions and pain management. To arrange an appointment with Dr. Manish Taneja, our neurointervention and vascular specialist, contact us. You can also call us at (+65) 6904 8084 for a consultation.