This morning we met with my doctor to discuss the results of my angiogram, his findings, his recommendations, and the next course of action.

FINDINGS:

• In comparing the most recent angiogram with the angiogram from 2016, there are “significant changes” in the bloody remnant in the neck of the aneurysm.
• This finding gave my doctor “anxiety that it is at risk” of rupturing in the future again.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Place a flow diverter inside my existing stent to prevent more blood from getting into the neck of the aneurysm.
• They may insert and expand a balloon first to push back any “tines” from the original stent to allow the new flow diverter to be positioned better.
• The Surpass flow diverter is a more flexible stent that should adhere better to my “ugly” and “challenging” arterial structure around the aneurysm.
• It’s an endovascular procedure, so not open head surgery.
• Bringing in an additional doctor with knowledge of this procedure and flow diverter to assist if need be.

MY DECISION:

• To go ahead with this procedure here at Maine Med.
• Will be put on blood thinners (Plavix and full-strength aspirin) the week prior to procedure then remain on both for 6-months after.
• Procedure could be as early as March.

There is a good video about administering the Surpass flow diverter on this page, although it doesn’t show it being deployed inside another diverter: Surpass Flow Diverter

I was surprised to read on my blog that I’ve been dealing with the stress of this darn remnant for 11 years now. When the re-coil and stent didn’t do the job, the next course of action would be the stent within a stent. If THIS doesn’t work, there is a possibility we could sacrifice that entire section of artery, but I’m counting on it working so let’s not even go there.

Making this decision with Dave by my side gave me a sense of relief. Relief in knowing I’m doing something about it and there is a plan of action. I have great faith in my doctor and his familiarity with my case, my brain, and this particular brain aneurysm for the past 11 years. I know he wouldn’t make a recommendation unless he felt there was a good chance of success. And so far, he hasn’t been wrong.