Diagnosing Brain Aneurysm

CT Scan

This is an X-ray image of the head that a specialized computer processes into 2- and 3-dimensional images of the skull and brain. A CT scan can show the presence of an aneurysm — and if the aneurysm has burst, it detects blood that has leaked into the brain.

CT Angiography, or CT(A)

A CT angiography combines a CT scan with contrast dye injected into the bloodstream. CT(A) is noninvasive because it involves only an injection into a vein.

Compared to a standard CT scan, this test produces clear and detailed images of the brain’s arteries. The images help doctors detect and analyze aneurysms and other abnormalities of the blood vessels.

MRI

Instead of using radiation like X-rays and CT scans, MRI uses a powerful magnetic field to create brain images. The images help your doctor determine these specifics:

• How blood vessel abnormalities have affected your brain
• The anatomy of aneurysms
• The anatomy of other vascular lesions

MRI Angiography, or MRA

This type of imaging uses MRI to visualize the brain arteries and veins. Depending on the information your doctor needs, this may or may not require an IV injection. MRA is complementary to CT(A) for displaying 2-, 3- and 4-dimensional images of blood vessels.

We also have sophisticated CT-MRI image fusion technology. This process allows your doctor to combine data from two different studies — CT and MRI — into a single 3-D image. This helps your doctor better assess your brain aneurysm and make plans for your care.

Perfusion Imaging

Both CT and MRI scans at BIDMC feature perfusion imaging. This is an advanced capability to assess these issues:

Brain Aneurysm Institute specialists are leaders in developing and advancing MRI perfusion imaging. Our neuroradiologists are highly skilled at interpreting the results.

Cerebral or Spinal Angiogram

Another name for this test is an arteriogram or catheter angiogram. This invasive test requires numbing anesthesia and a small incision in the groin.

Your doctor inserts a catheter (thin, flexible tube) through arteries from the groin to the neck and inject contrast dye into your bloodstream. This highlights these or any other abnormalities:

• Aneurysm
• Obstruction or narrowing in a blood vessel in the neck, head or brain
• Vascular malformation

This test can help your doctor diagnose these and other issues:

• Stroke
• Unruptured and ruptured aneurysms
• Other vascular abnormalities of the brain and spine

Angiography is the first step in endovascular treatment of these abnormalities. Doctors often perform it before radiation therapy or surgical therapy for cancer.

Lumbar Puncture/Spinal Fluid Analysis

Doctors may order this test when they suspect a ruptured aneurysm. Using a needle, doctors remove a small amount of fluid from the space between the spinal cord and its protective covering. If there is blood in the fluid, it indicates bleeding or brain hemorrhage, which would likely be a ruptured aneurysm.

Your doctor uses the results of your brain aneurysm tests to create your customized treatment plan. Depending on your needs, brain aneurysm treatment may include brain surgery or other options.