Brain Aneurysm Care in San Antonio

Brain Aneurysm Facts

A brain aneurysm is a weakened, bulging area in a blood vessel in the brain. The more it grows, the higher the risk of rupture, thus becoming more dangerous over time. They are very common – 1 in 50 people have an unruptured brain aneurysm.

There are 3-5 million cases in the United States alone each year, though most people don’t show any symptoms. It is extremely important to try to catch an aneurysm before it ruptures, as a rupture is associated with a 60% or more chance of death and can also cause hemorrhagic strokes.

Certified Comprehensive Stroke Center

University Hospital is certified as a Comprehensive Stroke Center by The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association—the highest level of certification available. We have the experience and the latest technology to deal with brain aneurysms, including assessing risk, providing screenings, discussing treatment options and offering individualized support.

Brain Aneurysm Risk Factors

There are several risk factors for brain aneurysms, among them:

• Drug use
• Family history of aneurysm
• Gender and age: Women and people over the age of 40 are at increased risk of aneurysm
• High blood pressure or hypertension
• Smoking
• Traumatic head injury

Diagnosing Brain Aneurysms

If a patient is determined as "at-risk" for a brain aneurysm based on the factors listed above, they are 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.

Brain Aneurysm Treatments

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 San Antonio’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.