Cerebral Aneurysms : Figure 2

Artists depiction of endovascular aneurysm treatment: a microcatheter measuring a fraction of a millimeter is passed under image guidance into a cerebral aneurysm where soft platinum-based coils are then used to occlude the aneurysm. Like winding a ball of yarn in reverse, tiny coils exactly sized to match the internal dimensions of the aneurysm are used to progressively fill the blood space within the aneurysm. Highly specialized digital imaging systems are used to measure the aneurysm dimensions in order for the physician to select the appropriate treatment coils. Once complete, blood flow is excluded from the aneurysm cavity, thus preventing hemorrhage. Using modern “biologically-active” coils that induce a healing response, permanent aneurysm occlusion, and even healing, is now possible.