From the Research
Aspirin use in patients with cerebral aneurysms is safe and may be beneficial in preventing aneurysm rupture, particularly in those with small unruptured aneurysms and ischemic cerebrovascular disease, as evidenced by a recent study published in 2021 1. The study found that aspirin use was associated with a low rate of aneurysm rupture, and the incidence rate for rupture was significantly lower in the aspirin group compared to the non-aspirin group. Key considerations for aspirin use in patients with cerebral aneurysms include:
- The size of the aneurysm: aspirin may be safe for patients with small unruptured aneurysms (<7 mm) 1
- The presence of ischemic cerebrovascular disease: aspirin may be beneficial in preventing aneurysm rupture in these patients 1
- The risk of bleeding: aspirin use should be carefully considered in patients with a high risk of bleeding, such as those with uncontrolled hypertension or larger aneurysms
- The type of treatment: dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin and clopidogrel) may be recommended for patients who have undergone endovascular coiling or stent placement, but the duration of treatment should be limited (usually 3-6 months) 2, 3 Overall, the decision to use aspirin in patients with cerebral aneurysms should be individualized based on the patient's specific risk factors and medical history, and should be made in collaboration with neurosurgical and cardiovascular specialists.