There are several risk factors for brain aneurysms, among them:
- Family history of aneurysm
- Smoking
- High blood pressure or hypertension
- Drug use
- Traumatic head injury
- Gender and age: women and patients over the age of 40 are at increased risk of aneurysm
If a patient is determined as ‘at-risk’ for brain aneurysm, they are then given a screening which includes special imaging testing. This test is known as an MRA, or magnetic resonance angiography, and needs to be ordered by a primary-care physician. It’s a painless, noninvasive procedure that is vital to determining whether a brain aneurysm is present and allowing us to prevent a potential rupture.
Treatment options for brain aneurysms vary as much as brain aneurysms themselves do. Just as two brain aneurysms can differ in size, shape, and location, a patient’s treatment requires individualized assessment and support to find the most appropriate technique.
Our team has the area’s most experienced surgeons trained in the latest neurosurgical procedures. They’re part of our multidisciplinary team of specialists that provides the most comprehensive neuroscience care available in South Texas.
University Health is committed to helping prevent and protect against aneurysms and offers a variety of services for at-risk patients.