If you or a family member has been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm, the first major question that arises is — what is the best way to treat it?
You’ve likely heard of two popular choices: Coiling and Clipping.
But which one is safer? Which one enables you to recover sooner? And what about the newer, less invasive methods like flow diverter endovascular surgery that are now catching on in India?
Let’s simplify it for you — so you can make a confident decision with knowledge.
What is Brain Aneurysm Coiling?
Endovascular coiling is a minimally invasive procedure.
Here’s what they do:
- A tiny catheter is inserted, typically through your groin or wrist artery.
- The physician threads it all the way to the aneurysm in the brain.
- Small platinum coils are inserted into the aneurysm, promoting clotting and blocking it from blood circulation.
- Imagine sealing a leak from the inside out — without ever having to open your skull!
Advantages of Coiling:
- No open operation — just a small cut!
- Smaller hospital stay (usually 1-2 days)
- Faster recovery time
- Lower risk of initial infection or complication
- Ideal for patients who may not be able to tolerate large surgery
Disadvantages of Coiling:
- Very slightly increased likelihood of requiring a repeat procedure someday (particularly if the aneurysm is large)
- Not all aneurysm shapes can be treated with coiling — complicated cases may require alternative methods.
What is Brain Aneurysm Clipping?
- Surgical clipping is a tried-and-true, old-school technique. Here’s the process:
A neurosurgeon conducts a craniotomy (a skull opening). - They find the aneurysm directly and insert a tiny metal clip at the base, permanently cutting off blood flow.
- Picture putting a clamp on a ruptured pipe — but this time, it’s in your head.
Advantages of Clipping:
- Extremely low risk of aneurysm reopening at a later date
- Is a “permanent fix” in most instances
- Works for some very complex aneurysms that coiling cannot reach easily
- Disadvantages of Clipping:
- Involves open brain surgery
- Longer hospitalization (usually a week or more)
- More noticeable scarring and longer recovery
- Greater immediate risks of surgery such as infection, bleeding, or neurological complications
- The Emergence of Flow Diverter Endovascular Surgery in India
Now, here’s something new:
Flow diverters are the newest game-changers in aneurysm treatment — particularly for complicated or large aneurysms that previously required risky surgery.
In this minimally invasive procedure:
- A small stent-like device is deployed across the aneurysm.
- It redirects blood flow away, promoting natural healing and vessel remodelling over time.
Why are flow diverters gaining popularity in India?
- They spare open surgery.
- They provide a safer option for wide-necked or giant aneurysms.
- Patients will usually recover much quicker.
- The risks of complications related to the procedure are reduced compared to open surgery.
- At major hospitals across India, patients are now opting for flow diverter surgeries because they combine safety, precision, and faster recovery — making it an ideal choice for many.
So, Which Treatment is Better?
If you’re looking for minimal downtime, less risk, and early recovery, coiling (and now flow diverters) often come out ahead.
If you have a very complicated aneurysm that cannot be coiled or diverted easily, clipping can still be the best option.
Each patient is different.
The optimum treatment for you is based on:
- Aneurysm size, shape, and position
- Your age and overall health
- Your physician’s suggestion based on your individual situation
- With modern endovascular procedures such as coiling and flow diverter surgery, brain aneurysm treatment has become safer, faster, and more intelligent today.
- If your aneurysm is a candidate, selecting coiling or a flow diverter might mean less discomfort, less lost time, and a quicker return to regular life.
Discuss it with your neurovascular expert — and ask whether minimally invasive treatments might be the best for you.
Because your brain is worth the kindest, wisest treatment imaginable.
Get educated. Stay tough. Stay protected!
