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ANEURYSMS

Aneurysms are dilations in weakened parts of the arterial walls. An aneurysm not treated early can cause a sudden rupture, leading to internal bleeding. As a result, the formation of a blood clot or sudden bleeding can become life-threatening.

Unfortunately, an aneurysm can grow in any of the blood vessels in the body. For example, an aneurysm that develops in the aorta (aortic aneurysm), the most prominent artery in the body, affects the transportation of blood from the heart. Aneurysms developing in any other area of the body apart from the aorta are referred to as peripheral aneurysms.

Cerebral (brain) aneurysms hone on the arteries of the brain. A saccular aneurysm, also known as a berry aneurysm, appears in the form of a blood sac connected to any one of the arteries of the brain. The aneurysm looks like a berry connected to an artery, hence the name. Aneurysms are likely to occur in the upper portion of the aorta, the carotid arteries that transfer blood to the neck, face and brain, and the artery behind the knee (popliteal aneurysm) and spleen.

 
 

SYMPTOMS

Some people are unaware they have aneurysms unless they burst. In this case, a burst aneurysm is considered a medical emergency

Common signs of a burst aneurysm include:

  • Fatigue
  • Confusion
  • Abnormal, quickened heartbeat
  • Immediate pain in the back, chest, head or stomach

Although symptoms of an aneurysm depend on its location, typical signs include:

  • Trouble swallowing
  • Lethargy
  • Dizziness
  • Eye deterioration
  • Nausea
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Swollen neck

TREATMENT

When caught early, treatment can prevent the aneurysm from rupturing. Sometimes, only medication is used to reduce abnormal cholesterol and blood pressure levels. When a large aneurysm is on the verge of rupturing, Dr Manyangadze considers several surgical procedures such as:

  • Endovascular Repair
    Endovascular aneurysm repair is done by means of deploying a catheter. A catheter is a fine tube passed through the blood vessel. Then, a graft is inserted to repair damage to the artery.
  • Endovascular coils
    Spirals of platinum wire are inserted via a catheter to treat the brain aneurysm. The coil stops blood flow to the aneurysm and reduces the risk of it bursting.
  • Surgical clipping
    A metal clip is inserted beneath the head of the aneurysm to reduce blood flow to the region.
  • Embolisation via a Catheter
    Dr Manyangadze places a catheter into the injured artery, feeding embolic agents through the tube to prevent bleeding.
  • Open surgery
    Open surgery involves the surgical removal of the aneurysm or repair of the aneurysm using a graft.

 

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Peripheral arterial disease

Aneurysms

Venous disorders. mainly varicose veins and DVTs

Strokes

 

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FAQ

1How does an aneurysm develop?
An aneurysm develops due to plaque formation in certain blood vessels, a condition called “atherosclerosis". The risk of an aneurysm increases if you have a history of aneurysms in your family or you suffer from high blood pressure.
2How are embolic agents used to destroy an aneurysm?
Using embolisation to treat an affected artery, an abnormal mass, Dr Manyangadze inserts small embolic particles through a catheter to penetrate and block the blood supply to the aneurysm.
3What is the graft used to repair the aneurysm made from?
The graft is created from a fine metal mesh covered in polyester. A stent graft can be used to treat an aortic aneurysm. The graft is placed in the aorta, where it remains for blood to flow freely.