Internal carotid artery aneurysm and what treatment was recommended?

Posted by Laurie, Volunteer Mentor @roch, Aug 2, 2018

I am posting to hear from others with internal carotid artery aneurysm and what treatment, if any the doctors recommended.

I was having a CT scan for another reason and an aneurysm was discovered. Immediately had consults with neurology and neurosurgery and it was decided that it did not need immediate attention except taking a baby aspirin daily. It showed calcification that meant it had been there for a while. I have not had a stroke or other symptoms. I am 62 with no heart problems.

But when you here aneurysm, you fear the worst.

An angiogram was done few weeks later and results were:
Right common carotid artery cervical angiogram demonstrates an aneurysm of the right internal carotid artery upper cervical segment which measures 33 x 25 x 29 mm.

The surgeon said these types of aneurysm rarely burst and should follow up with another test after 6 months to see if there are any changes.

If you have had similar diagnosis, what advice are your drs giving you?

My doctors are at Mayo Rochester, so confident that diagnosis is correct.

Laurie

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5posies | @5posies | Oct 2, 2018

Through a MRI for another condition, I was found to have a possible large internal carotid aneurysm. A CTA confirmed the diagnosis. I’m now waiting for an appt with a neurosurgeon. Until my appointment, I’m wondering if I should take any precautions in my daily living.
I’ve had no symptoms of a problem.

perion | @perion | Aug 4, 2018

Hi there, I was diagnosed with 2 aneurysms, one near the optic nerve and cavernous sinus. Like yours's mine our small but they monitor them. Of course if I get a bad headache they get more concerned & you get a free MRA!! But it is life as normal for the most part. You just learn to live with it.

skk15 | @skk15 | Aug 4, 2018

I had very similar experience, also at Mayo Clinic. One follow up and nothing more. It has been about 4 years now. Since physicians do not seem concerned, I have decided to ignore the information,for the most part, and live life without fear.

Laurie, Volunteer Mentor | @roch | Aug 3, 2018

In reply to @stellgma "I’m being treated at Mayo as well but for brain AVM’s. Have you had a consult..." + (show)

I only saw the neurosurgeons briefly before and after the angiogram at hospital. I wish I would had an in office visit in less stressful environment. When I do 6 month recheck, I am going create a list of prepared questions and ask for a office visit. What might be routine for surgeon, is not routine for me.