Minimally invasive neurosurgery and advanced care helps patient overcome brain aneurysm

Lindsey, an active woman deeply involved in her Pensacola, Florida, community, was going about her day when everything changed in an instant.

In November 2023, Lindsey suffered a seizure and stopped breathing during a salon appointment. After being stabilized, doctors discovered she had experienced a massive brain bleed. She was rushed to Ascension Sacred Heart, where emergency surgery relieved pressure on her brain. Her aneurysm was then treated using a minimally invasive procedure in the hybrid biplane room—an advanced imaging system that provides real-time, high-resolution 3D views of blood vessels and brain structures. Using a tiny microcatheter, Dr. Maria Toledo, neurosurgeon at Ascension Sacred Heart, placed coils inside the aneurysm to block blood flow, preventing rupture and further damage.

Although Lindsey initially struggled with movement and speech and required extensive rehabilitation, she remained determined. With expert care and unwavering support, she made steady progress, regaining her strength, mobility, and voice.

Today, as she continues her recovery, Lindsey reflects on how far she has come. She is deeply grateful for the compassionate care of Dr. Toledo and the entire neurological team at Ascension Sacred Heart.

Her husband, Alan, expressed his heartfelt gratitude, saying:

"We are incredibly grateful to the entire team of neurologists, surgeons, and nursing staff who cared for Lindsey. Dr. Toledo, Dr. Neill, Dr. Kohler, Dr. Pruitt, Dr. Schutt, Dr. King, PA Lyndsay N., and so many others provided exceptional care every step of the way. They set a remarkably high bar for compassionate care and medical expertise, ensuring Lindsey received the best possible treatment. We can’t thank them enough for their dedication and kindness throughout this process.”

At the Advanced Brain and Spine Institute at Ascension Sacred Heart, you'll find a team of specialists dedicated to treating neurological disorders affecting the brain, spine and nerves. As the region’s only dedicated Neuro Intensive Care Unit and a DNV-designated Comprehensive Stroke Center, Ascension Sacred Heart offers advanced neurological care close to home. Our neurologists and neurosurgeons collaborate with leading specialists across the country, sharing best practices, research, and innovations to provide personalized, cutting-edge treatment tailored to each patient’s needs.

Learn more about Dr. Toledo and discover the treatment options that may be right for you.