Facts about Aneurysms

  • An aneurysm, is a localized, blood-filled dilation of a blood vessel caused by disease or weakening of the vessel wall.
  • There are nearly half a million deaths worldwide each year caused by brain aneurysms and half the victims are younger than 50. hay casi medio millón de muertes cada año
  • Aneurysms most commonly occur in arteries at the base of the brain and in the aorta.
  • A number of factors can damage and weaken the walls of the aorta and cause aortic aneurysms. Examples include aging, smoking, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, infections, certain genetic conditions, and trauma. Family history also may play a role in causing aortic aneurysms.
  • Women, more than men, suffer from brain aneurysms at a ratio of 3:2.
  • In a true aneurysm, the inner layers of a vessel have bulged outside the outer layer that normally confines them. The aneurysm is surrounded by these inner layers.
  • Four out of seven people who recover from a ruptured brain aneurysm will have disabilities.
  • Most frequent site of occurrence of cerebral aneurysms is in the anterior communicating artery, which is part of the circle of Willis.
  • The thoracic aorta can also be involved. One common form of thoracic aortic aneurysm involves widening of the proximal aorta and the aortic root, which leads to aortic insufficiency.
  • Aneurysms occur in the legs also, in particular in the deep vessels.
  • Many aneurysms are atherosclerotic in nature.