If a brain aneurysm bursts, the resulting bleeding is known as a subarachnoid haemorrhage, which just describes the anatomical layer the bleed happens within. The blood supply to the area of brain this artery supplies is then compromised, causing a stroke, which impairs the functions which that brain tissue is responsible for, e.g. speech, or sight.

Brain aneurysm rupture (bursting), and the resulting subarachnoid haemorrhage (bleeding around the brain), is therefore extremely serious. Permanent disability, or death can happen quickly if it is not managed promptly.



That sounds less than ideal. Can anything be done?

I’m glad I asked. Yes, there is actually; thanks to the discipline of neurosurgery. The management options will depend on two major factors:

Whether the aneurysm has already ruptured How medically fit a patient is for major surgery

Option #1: Clipping