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Endovascular neurovascular treatment

Endovascular neurovascular treatment is a minimally invasive procedure used to manage certain vascular conditions of the brain, such as cerebral aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

Instead of opening the skull, the procedure uses thin catheters inserted into blood vessels to reach the affected area. Through these catheters, neurosurgeons can deliver coils, stents, or embolic agents to repair aneurysms, block abnormal blood flow, or stabilize vascular malformations with high precision.

This approach is often chosen when lesions are difficult to reach with traditional open surgery or when a less invasive option is preferred. Endovascular treatment can reduce recovery time and minimize surgical risk, while providing effective management of complex neurovascular conditions.

Symptoms that may indicate a neurovascular condition include:

  • Sudden, severe headaches or “thunderclap” headaches
  • Seizures
  • Weakness, numbness, or other focal neurological deficits
  • Vision changes or speech difficulties
  • Gradual neurological decline in cases of unruptured AVMs or aneurysms

Symptoms vary depending on the type, size, and location of the vascular lesion.

Evaluation for endovascular neurovascular treatment typically involves:

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
  • Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)
  • Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) for detailed mapping of the brain’s blood vessels
  • Clinical assessment of neurological function and review of previous treatments

This thorough assessment ensures safe and precise treatment planning.

Endovascular procedures are performed by navigating catheters through blood vessels to the affected area in the brain. Techniques may include:

  • Coiling or stent-assisted coiling of aneurysms
  • Embolization of AVMs using liquid or particulate agents
  • Flow diversion to redirect blood flow and reduce rupture risk

The procedure is typically minimally invasive, performed under local or general anesthesia, and often requires shorter hospital stays compared to open surgery. Follow-up imaging and neurological monitoring are essential to assess treatment success and long-term outcomes.

 

Neurosurgery

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