How is an endovascular brain aneurysm procedure done?
The doctor first numbs an area of your groin or wrist and makes a small cut (incision). Then the doctor uses a needle to put a small plastic tube through the cut and into a blood vessel. The tube is called a catheter. Using X-ray equipment, the doctor gently guides the catheter through the blood vessel to your brain aneurysm.
Then the doctor uses a tool, such as a coil, to fill up or block the opening to the aneurysm. This prevents blood from getting into the aneurysm. Then the doctor removes the catheter and puts a small bandage on the incision.
After brain aneurysm repair: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have severe trouble breathing.
- You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood.
- It is hard to think, move, speak, or see.
- Your body is jerking or shaking.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have a fever with a stiff neck or a severe headache.
- You are bleeding from the area where the catheter was put in your artery.
- You have a fast-growing, painful lump at the catheter site.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the incision.
- Pus draining from the incision.
- Swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin.
- A fever.
- Your leg or hand is painful, looks blue or feels cold, numb, or tingly.
- You have any sudden vision changes.
- You have new or worse headaches.
- You fall and hit your head.
- You are sleeping more than you are awake.
- You have a headache and you throw up.
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You have a fever over 100°F.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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