Aneurysm recovery: An aneurysm nearly killed this N.J. woman and where she is now | NJ.com

patty petrula dr walzman aneurysm patient story

December 28th, 2021 by Daniel E. Walzman, MD

What dictates successful aneurysm recovery? For those recovering from a brain aneurysm, there are several factors to consider, including the size and location of the aneurysm, whether it ruptured or was treated before rupturing, the extent of any damage to the brain, the individual’s overall health, and the specific treatments received.

However, even with those who experience severe aneurysms due to size or location, full aneurysm recovery is possible, allowing patients to experience a full and active life post treatment. For example, one New Jersey woman was almost killed from her aneurysm but is now tackling marathons and more.

“I knew she was into that sort of stuff, but I was surprised she did a full marathon,” said Walzman, who is chief of vascular and endovascular neurosurgery at Hackensack University Medical Center. “There’s nothing more gratifying as a doctor than getting a patient who is doing well.”

Read more about Patty Petrula’s aneurysm recovery from the original article on NJ.com.

What else to know about cerebral angiograms

To diagnose a brain aneurysm, it’s common for patients to undergo a cerebral angiogram, which is considered a common procedure. To start, a small catheter is inserted into the arteries of a leg or arm to inject a contrast dye into the blood vessels. As a result, the arteries and veins are “mapped out,” and more easily seen when looking at areas in the head and neck.

This type of procedure is considered the best way to see blood vessels of the head and neck. There are other tests that also give a lot of detail, but none give as much detail and clarity as a formal cerebral angiogram.

After the procedure, patients need to lie flat for a few hours to prevent bleeding from the catheter insertion site. Most patients can leave the hospital on the same day, but it is important to take it easy for a few days. Full recovery is usually swift, with most individuals resuming normal activities within a week.

Have you or someone you know been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm and are concerned with aneurysm recovery?

For more than 25 years, the experienced physician team at New Jersey Brain and Spine has delivered highly-skilled and compassionate care to more than 40,000 patients with complex brain, spine and neurological conditions. Please contact us today to decide if we are the right option for your care and treatment.

We also offer an expert second opinion service should you wish to discuss your treatment options. For more information, or to request a second opinion, reach out to us immediately by calling 201-342-2550 or emailing us at secondopinion@NJBrainSpine.com.

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