DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a 77-year-old male in good health. In 1963 at the age of 33, I had a brain aneurysm. The pain was absolutely indescribable. Its position was located with an angiogram but because of its location, it was deemed inoperable. The doctors did not have much hope for me. Thankfully, I have had no further symptoms from it.
About three months ago, I was outside at night watching the stars, lost my balance and fell. I hit my head on the concrete driveway but did not have a headache, blurred vision or dizziness — just a large bump. The next day, I went to my doctor who ordered an MRI and an MRA. He found the original aneurysm AND another one on the right side of my head.
I was then sent to the University of Texas to see a specialist who deals with brain aneurysms. I had another angiogram to confirm the results of the MRI and MRA. The specialist recommended a surgical clip be placed on the right sided aneurysm due to its location. He also said the original one could be “repaired” with a non-invasive procedure to place a stent.
I have been advised of the low risk involved in both of these procedures and of the recovery times for each. My concern is related to the surgery that would “open up” my head. It carries the very real risk of brain trauma and other side effects.
I have lived 44 years with the first aneurysm with no problems at all. I have no idea how long I have had the other one but it is not showing any symptoms either. I do have some tension headaches but feel these are due to my uncertainty about surgery.
I know the above is not a full analysis but hope you can give me your opinion based on what I have told you and your experience. I would greatly appreciate knowing what you would do were you in my shoes.
DEAR READER:
If your original aneurysm has not enlarged in 44 years, you can safely adopt a wait-and-see approach. In this manner, you can have both aneurysms monitored every 6 or 12 months and if both or either enlarges, go ahead with the repair procedures.
Although there is always a possibility of operative complications, brain surgery is much safer now than it was in 1963. I suggest that you once again review the situation with the specialist to discuss what he will do and what the risks are. You may also wish to find out if there are any other options. You also can choose to have a second opinion from another neurosurgeon. This should eliminate some of your stress and help you come to an informed decision.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “An Informed Approach to Surgery”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
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