What is vertebrobasilar dissection?

What is vertebrobasilar dissection?

Vertebrobasilar artery dissection (VBD) is characterized by the intrusion of blood within the vascular layers (intramural hematoma) in the vertebral artery (VA) or/and basilar artery (BA) due to a tear in the intima of the vessel wall [1].

How do you assess for vertebral artery dissection?

Computed tomography (CT) scanning – Identifies subarachnoid hemorrhage ; CT angiography (CTA), along with magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), are the imaging modalities of choice for vertebral artery dissections; however, CTA is less accurate in the presence of calcified arteries.

Is vertebral artery dissection serious?

Vertebral artery dissection (VAD) is a rare cause of stroke in the general population, but one of the more common causes of stroke in patients younger than 45 years of age. Its signs and symptoms can be vague, making diagnosis difficult.

How long does vertebral artery dissection take to heal?

Warfarin is typically continued for 3–6 months, as during this time the flow through the artery usually improves, and most strokes happen within the first 6 months after the development of the dissection. Some regard 3 months as sufficient.

Can a dissected artery heal?

Although arterial dissections often heal on their own, most children with dissections require treatment to prevent strokes while the dissection heals. The most common therapy for children is an anti-clotting medicine or blood thinner, such as coumadin or aspirin.

How do you test for vertebrobasilar insufficiency?

Technique

1. Place patient in supine and perform a passive extension and side flexion of the head and neck.
2. Perform passive rotation of the neck to the same side and hold for approximately 30 seconds.
3. Repeat test with head movement to the opposite side.

How is vertebrobasilar insufficiency diagnosed?

How is vertebrobasilar insufficiency diagnosed?

1. Imaging tests: A CT (computed tomography) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) takes pictures of the blood vessels at the back of your brain.
2. Angiography: Your healthcare provider will use angiography to take X-ray pictures of your arteries.

Can you exercise with a vertebral artery dissection?

Your doctor may recommend that you modify some of your activities, such as your exercise program, to avoid activities that may increase the risk of future events (such as heavy lifting). Patients who have had a cervical artery dissection may need to be checked for vascular disease in other parts of the body.

How long does it take for vertebral artery dissection to heal?

Arterial dissections heal within 3–6 mo, with resolution of stenosis seen in 90%. Dissecting aneurysms resolve on follow-up imaging in 5–40%, decrease in size in 15–30%, and remain unchanged in 50–65%.

What is the most common cause of vertebral artery dissection?

Vertebral dissection may occur after physical trauma to the neck, such as a blunt injury (e.g. traffic collision), or strangulation, or after sudden neck movements, i.e. coughing, but may also happen spontaneously. 1–4% of spontaneous cases have a clear underlying connective tissue disorder affecting the blood vessels.