Aneurysm Singapore: this article gives practical, local information about brain and aortic aneurysms for patients, caregivers, and clinicians. It explains how common they are, what to watch for, how they are diagnosed and treated in Singapore, and where to get care.
- TL;DR / Key takeaways
- About 3–3.5% of people may harbour an unruptured brain aneurysm in Singapore.
- Aortic aneurysm rupture has high mortality but early detection and endovascular repair reduce risk.
- Know the warning signs: sudden severe headache, chest/back pain, fainting, or neurological changes.
- Singapore offers modern treatments such as EVAR/TEVAR and endovascular coiling; specialist referral is essential.
What is an aneurysm?
An aneurysm is a weakened, bulging area in an artery wall that can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding. Brain and aortic aneurysms are the most common clinically significant types. If an aneurysm ruptures, immediate emergency care is required to reduce mortality and disability.
Prevalence and risk in Singapore
Brain aneurysms are present in roughly 3–3.5% of the population in Singapore according to local estimates. This matches global screening studies that find small unruptured aneurysms in a few percent of adults.
How common are brain aneurysms in Singapore?
Unruptured brain aneurysms appear in about 3–3.5% of adults on imaging. Most remain silent until they grow or rupture, which is why incidental detection on CT or MRI happens during unrelated scans.
Who is at higher risk locally?
Risk increases with age, smoking, high blood pressure, and a family history of aneurysm. Men have higher rates of aortic aneurysm; women show faster rising mortality for aortic disease in some regional data. Connective tissue disorders and heavy alcohol use also raise risk.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Symptoms vary by aneurysm location and size, and many aneurysms cause no symptoms. When symptoms occur they can be sudden and severe, requiring urgent assessment.
Warning signs of a brain aneurysm
A sudden, severe headache described as the “worst headache of my life” is a classic sign of subarachnoid hemorrhage from a ruptured brain aneurysm. Other warning signs include nausea, neck stiffness, vision changes, weakness, or loss of consciousness.
How aneurysms are diagnosed in Singapore hospitals
Diagnosis uses imaging: CT for suspected rupture, CTA or MRA to map vessels, and digital subtraction angiography for detailed planning. Most major hospitals in Singapore provide this imaging and multidisciplinary vascular teams for treatment planning. For more on local services see SingHealth.
Treatment options and outcomes in Singapore
Singapore offers modern, evidence-based treatments for both brain and aortic aneurysms. Treatment choice depends on size, location, symptoms, and patient health.
Treatments available locally
Common options include endovascular coiling and flow diversion for brain aneurysms and open repair, EVAR, or TEVAR for aortic aneurysms. PanAsia Surgery provides information on tailored approaches and minimally invasive care for aortic disease. for clinic details and referral pathways.
Success rates and recovery process
Endovascular procedures have lower immediate surgical risk and shorter hospital stays. Ruptured aneurysms still carry significant morbidity and mortality, but prompt specialist care improves outcomes. Recovery often includes rehabilitation, blood pressure control, and imaging follow-up.
Prevention, awareness, and finding care
Prevention focuses on modifying risk factors and timely screening for high-risk people. Public awareness and specialist access make a big difference in outcomes.
Reducing your risk in Singapore
Control blood pressure, stop smoking, maintain healthy lipids, and limit heavy alcohol. Regular health checks and targeted imaging for those with family history can detect aneurysms before they rupture. Blood pressure control is the single most important modifiable step.
Where to find specialists and support
Major public hospitals and private vascular, neurosurgery, and interventional radiology teams treat aneurysms. Start with your GP for referral, or contact specialist centres directly. For trusted health system guidance visit MOH Singapore or consult PanAsia Surgery for vascular referrals
Short recovery story
A patient treated with endovascular repair returned home within days and began outpatient rehabilitation. The patient emphasizes early symptom recognition and timely transfer to a vascular centre. Personal accounts like this stress the value of fast specialist care in Singapore.
Summary
Aneurysm Singapore covers local prevalence, warning signs, diagnosis, modern treatments, and how to get care. Early detection, blood pressure control, and specialist referral are the most practical steps residents can take. For local evaluation and treatment options, contact PanAsia Surgery or your nearest vascular centre.
Frequently asked questions
Can a brain aneurysm be detected early in Singapore?
Yes. Incidental detection occurs on CT or MRI scans; targeted screening is available for high-risk individuals.
When should I seek emergency care?
If you have a sudden severe headache, collapse, severe chest or back pain, or new neurological deficits, call emergency services immediately.
Are aneurysm treatments covered by insurance in Singapore?
Coverage varies by plan and hospital; Medisave and private insurers may cover parts of treatment after approval.
How often should follow-up imaging happen after repair?
Follow-up intervals vary by procedure and size; typical follow-up uses CTA or MRA at 6–12 months then yearly or as advised by your team.
Is aneurysm surgery risky?
All surgeries carry risk, but modern endovascular techniques reduce complications for many patients; risk assessment is individualised.
