Aneurysm clipping

Aneurysm clipping is a type of brain surgery used to treat a brain aneurysm. An aneurysm is a weak, bulging spot in a blood vessel. If it bursts, it can cause serious bleeding in the brain.

Clipping closes off the aneurysm to stop blood from entering it. This helps prevent it from growing or rupturing. It’s a long-standing, effective treatment that has helped many people avoid life-threatening complications.

Aneurysm clipping may be an option if you have an aneurysm that:

• Has ruptured and needs urgent treatment
• Is large or has a shape that raises concern
• Is growing or causing symptoms
• Carries a higher risk of bleeding

During surgery, a neurosurgeon makes a small opening in the skull, called a craniotomy, to reach the affected blood vessel. They then place a tiny metal clip at the base of the aneurysm to stop blood from entering it. After the clip is in place, the skull bone is replaced, and the incision is closed.

Over time, the aneurysm is no longer at risk of rupturing, and normal blood flow continues through the artery. The clip remains securely in place permanently and is designed to stay safely in the body.

How effective is aneurysm clipping?

For an unruptured aneurysm, clipping usually provides an effective resolution to the problem. For ruptured aneurysms, clipping can stop the bleeding and prevent another bleeding in the future. However, brain damage that occurred prior to treatment may cause long-lasting disability. 

Aneurysm clipping is a well-established surgical treatment for brain aneurysms. In some cases, your care team may also talk with you about endovascular coiling, a less invasive procedure that is often associated with a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery. While this can be an important benefit, it isn’t the best choice for every aneurysm.

Our cerebrovascular experts will carefully review your situation and consider several factors when deciding on the best approach, including:

• Aneurysm size and shape: Clipping may be more effective for larger aneurysms and those with wide necks.
• Location: Aneurysms closer to the outer surface of the brain may be easier to reach with surgical methods. Endovascular treatment is often used for deeper aneurysms.
• Rupture: If an aneurysm has ruptured, surgery may be recommended to remove blood and relieve pressure on the brain. In some cases, the aneurysm can be clipped during the same surgery.
• Your age and health: Your overall health helps guide the safest approach. For some people, a less invasive option may be a better fit.

Recovery looks a little different for everyone. You may spend time in the hospital, especially if the aneurysm has ruptured. Follow-up visits and imaging help make sure the aneurysm is fully treated and that you’re healing well. With time and support, many people return to their usual routines.

At Penn Medicine, your care is centered around you—your health, your goals, and your peace of mind. Our neurosurgeons use advanced imaging and surgical techniques to treat aneurysms with precision while protecting healthy brain tissue.

You’ll have a team that works together to guide you from diagnosis through recovery. That includes specialists in brain and blood vessel care, as well as support services to help you heal and regain confidence.

Just as important, your team takes time to explain your options and answer your questions, so you can feel informed and supported every step of the way.