aneurysm

I had a bicuspid aortic valve, and an ascending thoracic aneurysm repaired 3 years ago.  Although my cardiologist told me the aneurysm was created by turbulence from the valve, I've read other opnions that it is caused by a congenital connective tissue disorder, and that I am at risk for brain aneurysms too.  What is your opinion?  And do I need to be monitored for brain aneurysms, and if so, how?

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

Connective tissue disorders can have an effect on the blood vessels of the brain. You need to have an MRI of the brain at least, to screen for any aneurysm. Do you have any symptoms which may suggest any problem in the brain ?

Regards

[ticktockgal]

The only problem I have noticed is alot more difficulty with word-finding, almost always with names, particularly since my aortic valve replacement/aneurysm repair surgery.  On the other hand, my migrains have virtually disappearred since then.  Ticktockgal

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

There is a possibility of an ischemic injury to the cerebral cortex during the surgery. Word finding difficulty is a cortical dysfunction. A PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan can tell you if the area for language is affected.

It will help if you could discuss this with your Neurologist.

Regards