Growth and Rupture Risk of Small Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

IN RESPONSE:

A substantial number of ruptured aneurysms are reported to be small. However, rupture is uncommon given the prevalence of unruptured intracranial aneurysms in the general population. In our study, we found poor correlation between growth and rupture risk in small aneurysms. This finding has implications for subsequent management after detection of incidental unruptured intracranial aneurysms: Should they be routinely treated? Should they undergo imaging surveillance? If so, for how long and how frequently? The literature has relatively poor evidence addressing these questions, and practice varies substantially.