Hemodynamics and Growth of Intracranial Aneurysms

Understanding the underlying mechanisms responsible for the progression and rupture of cerebral aneurysms is important for improving their evaluation and treatment. Previous studies have identified the main factors involved in these processes: hemodynamics, vascular wall biomechanics and mechano-biology, and contacts with peri-aneurysmal structures [1]. However, little is known about their relative importance and interactions. The goal of our study is to shed light into the mechanisms of aneurysm progression by studying cerebral aneurysms that are followed longitudinally in time. This is a challenging problem because due to the poor prognosis of aneurysm ruptures preventive interventions are considered for most aneurysms. This paper presents preliminary results and observations made on a series of aneurysms followed with non-invasive imaging.