Writers for TV medical dramas have to come up with as many as 10 disorders each week for their storylines. Interestingly, they use aneurysms quite often, and the uneasy look on a patient’s face after diagnosis says it all. Hey, we get it – aneurysm surgery is a scary thought. At Northern Rockies Neurosurgeons, we specialize in the procedure and in making sure you have the information and support you need.

Over the course of years, the wall of an artery in the brain can become weak and balloon outward. This bulge is called an aneurysm or cerebral aneurysm. If the aneurysm leaks or ruptures, it can cause severe bleeding, leading to extensive brain injury, disability or possibly death. The good news, however, is that not all aneurysms will rupture. Of the two-percent of Americans who are affected, a very minute percentage will burst. Unfortunately though, there is no way to tell if or when this will occur.

To protect against rupture, doctors use sophisticated imaging equipment to pinpoint the size, location, and shape of the aneurysm. Then the most common therapy is a surgical craniotomy, in which the physician places a clip across the base so the aneurysm no longer fills with blood. Dr. Meyer has had success in this technically demanding procedure. A newer, less invasive alternative is coil embolization, where the aneurysm is packed full of soft platinum coils inserted through a catheter in the groin. In fact, Dr. Replogle is the only neurosurgeon in four states who performs this procedure.

Risk factors for surgeries vary depending on the aneurysm itself, pre-existing brain damage, and the age and health of the patient. We can advise you on the best way to move forward.

To schedule a consultation, call toll-free: 1-866-822-1530.