Advanced Neuro-Interventional Care in Arkansas

Q - What is an intracranial aneurysm?

A - An aneurysm is a weak, bulging area in the wall of a brain blood vessel.

 

Q - What are the risks of an untreated intracranial aneurysm?

A - If left untreated, an aneurysm can rupture, causing life-threatening bleeding in the brain.

 

Q - What symptoms may I experience if my aneurysm ruptures? When should I go to the ER?

A - A ruptured aneurysm typically causes a sudden, incredibly severe headache (often described as the "worst headache of my life"), nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, or loss of consciousness. Call 911 or go to the nearest ER immediately if these occur.

Q - How are aneurysms treated?

A - Through a tiny incision, we can perform "aneurysm coiling," placing tiny platinum coils inside the bulge to block blood flow and prevent rupture.

Q - What is an AVM (Arteriovenous Malformation)?

A - An AVM is an abnormal, tangled web of blood vessels where arteries connect directly to veins without capillaries. This can happen in the brain or spine, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Q - What is carotid artery stenosis?

A - It is the narrowing of the carotid arteries (the main blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain), usually caused by a buildup of plaque.

 

Q - Why do I need a carotid stent?

A - A stent (a tiny mesh tube) props the narrowed artery open, restoring proper blood flow and significantly reducing your risk of having a stroke.

 

Q - What is a mechanical thrombectomy?

A - In the event of an acute ischemic stroke (a clot blocking blood to the brain), this minimally invasive procedure uses a catheter to physically grab and remove the clot, restoring blood flow.

Q - What is a Middle Meningeal Artery (MMA) embolization?

A - This is a minimally invasive treatment for a chronic subdural hematoma (blood pooled on the surface of the brain). We inject tiny particles into the MMA to block the blood supply that feeds the hematoma, allowing the body to absorb the old blood.

 

Q - How long does it take to see the benefits of MMA embolization?

A - It usually takes a few weeks to a few months for the hematoma to fully shrink and be absorbed by the body.

 

Q - What is venous sinus stenting?

A - Used often for patients with venous sinus stenosis or Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH), this involves placing a stent in a narrowed brain vein to relieve pressure. This can dramatically help resolve chronic headaches and vision issues.

Q - What is a diagnostic cerebral angiogram?

A - Also known as a DSA or 4-vessel angiogram, this is a minimally invasive procedure where contrast dye is injected through a catheter to give us highly detailed, real-time X-ray images of the blood vessels in your brain and neck.

 

Q - Should I take my medications the morning of my procedure?

A - Your physician will give you specific instructions. Typically, you will be told which medications (like blood pressure meds) to take with a small sip of water, and which to hold (like certain blood thinners or diabetes medications).

 

Q - How do I care for my procedure site at home?

A - Keep the incision site (usually the groin or wrist) clean and dry. Avoid heavy lifting, straining, or rigorous exercise for several days. We will provide detailed discharge instructions specific to your treatment.