Internal carotid artery redundancy is significantly associated with dissection

Successful carotid stenting of a carotid arterial dissection after straightening the tortuosity using an inflated balloon guiding catheter and the delivery wire of an anchored stent retriever

The authors present a patient with carotid dissection in a tortuous arterial segment who successfully underwent carotid artery stenting (CAS) by straightening the tortuosity using an inflated balloon guiding catheter (BGC) and a stent retriever (SR). A 56-year-old man was transferred to our institute with right hemiparesis and a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 9. Magnetic resonance imaging showed left internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion and ischemic change in the parietal lobe. Emergent angiography revealed tapered extracranial ICA occlusion sugg carotid artery dissection (CAD). CAS was attempted for CAD due to a mismatch of the motor area on clinical imaging. However, several attempts to navigate the stent delivery system over a guidewire failed. Therefore, we deployed a Trevo NXT ProVue SR (3 × 32 mm) in the middle cerebral artery, inflated a BGC, and then pulled on both to straighten the tortuous carotid artery, which resulted in successful navigation of the stent delivery system. The patient's symptoms improved after the recanalization. This case demonstrates the utility of a technique for navigation of a stent delivery system through a tortuous carotid artery in which the tortuosity is straightened by pulling on an inflated BGC and the delivery wire of the SR.

Is spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) related to local anatomy and hemodynamics? An exploratory study

AIMS

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an increasingly diagnosed cause of myocardial infarction with unclear pathophysiology. The aim of the study was to test if vascular segments site of SCAD present distinctive local anatomy and hemodynamic profiles.

METHODS

Coronary arteries with spontaneously healed SCAD (confirmed by follow-up angiography) underwent three-dimensional reconstruction, morphometric analysis with definition of vessel local curvature and torsion, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations with derivation of time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS) and topological shear variation index (TSVI). The (reconstructed) healed proximal SCAD segment was visually inspected for co-localization with curvature, torsion, and CFD-derived quantities hot spots.

RESULTS

Thirteen vessels with healed SCAD underwent the morpho-functional analysis. Median time between baseline and follow-up coronary angiograms was 57 (interquartile range [IQR] 45-95) days. In seven cases (53.9%), SCAD was classified as type 2b and occurred in the left anterior descending artery or near a bifurcation. In all cases (100%), at least one hot spot co-localized within the healed proximal SCAD segment, in 9 cases (69.2%) ≥3 hot spots were identified. Healed SCAD in proximity of a coronary bifurcation presented lower TAWSS peak values (6.65 [IQR 6.20-13.2] vs. 3.81 [2.53-5.17] Pa, p = 0.008) and hosted less frequently TSVI hot spots (100% vs. 57.1%, p = 0.034).

CONCLUSION

Vascular segments of healed SCAD were characterized by high curvature/torsion and WSS profiles reflecting increased local flow disturbances. Hence, a pathophysiological role of the interaction between vessel anatomy and shear forces in SCAD is hypothesized.

Cervical Artery Dissection and Patent Foramen Ovale in Juvenile Stroke: Causality or Casuality? A Familiar Case Report

Cervical artery dissection (CAD) and Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) are important causes of stroke in young patients. Although PFO is considered an independent risk factor for cerebral infarction in young adults with cryptogenic stroke, other concomitant causes may be necessary to cause brain injury. PFO could be a predisposing factor of stroke through several mechanisms including paradoxical embolism from a venous source, thrombus formation in atrial septum, or atrial arrhythmias causing cerebral thromboembolism. The pathophysiology of CAD is poorly understood and includes both constitutional and environmental factors. A causal association is often difficult to establish, as other predisposing factors may also play a role in CAD etiopathogenesis. We present a family with ischemic stroke (a father and his three daughters), in which the two different stroke causes are present. We hypothesized that a paradoxical embolism caused by PFO, associated with arterial wall disease, in the presence of a procoagulant state, could produce arterial dissection and then stroke.

Diagnostic potential of routine brain MRI and high-resolution, multi-contrast vessel wall imaging in the detection of internal carotid artery dissection

Objective

Cervical artery dissection (CAD) is one of the major causes of stroke and most commonly occurs at the site of the extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA). This study aimed to assess the value of routine brain MRI, clinical information, and high-resolution, multi-contrast vessel wall MR imaging (hrVWI) for the timely detection of ICA dissection.

Methods

A total of 105 patients with CAD and 105 without CAD were recruited for this study. The lesion type in the patients was determined based on images from different modalities, including brain MRI, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), computed tomography angiography (CTA), digital subtraction angiography (DSA), ultrasonography, and hrVWI and clinical information. Each lesion was reviewed to determine the type following a stepwise procedure by referring to (1) brain MRI only; (2) brain MRI and clinical information; (3) hrVWI only; and (4) hrVWI, CTA, DSA, and clinical information.

Results

Typical clinical presentations of patients with potential CAD include headache, neck pain, and/or Horner's syndrome. Representative imaging signs in the brain MRI included a crescentic or circular iso- or hyperintensity around the lumen, a curvilinear and isointense line crossing the lumen, or aneurysmal vessel dilation. Based on brain MRI alone, 54.3% (57/105) of the patients with CAD were correctly classified, and the accuracy increased to 73.3% (77/105) when clinical information was combined (P < 0.001) with high specificity and low sensitivity. Further analysis showed that hrVWI had the superior capability in detecting CAD, with a sensitivity and a specificity of 95.1% and 97.0%, respectively.

Conclusion

The combination of brain MRI and clinical information could be used for the diagnosis of CAD; however, hrVWI should be sought for uncertain cases.

Vascular flow limitations affecting the cervico-cranial region: Understanding ischaemia

BACKGROUND

Blood flow and brain ischaemia have been of interest to physical therapists for decades. Despite much debate, and multiple publications around risk assessment of the cervical spine, more work is required to achieve consensus on this vital, complex topic. In 2020, the International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT) Cervical Framework adopted the dubious terminology 'vascular pathologies of the neck', which is misleading, on the premise that 1) not all flow limitations leading to ischaemia, are associated with observable blood vessel pathology and 2) not all blood flow limitations leading to ischaemia, are in the anatomical region of the 'neck'.

OBJECTIVE

This paper draws upon the full body of haemodynamic knowledge and science, to describe the variety of arterial flow limitations affecting the cervico-cranial region.

DISCUSSION

It is the authors' contention that to apply clinical reasoning and appropriate risk assessment of the cervical spine, there is a requirement for clinicians to have a clear understanding of anatomy/anatomical relations, the haemodynamic science of vascular flow limitation, and related pathologies. This paper describes the wide range of presentations and haemodynamic mechanisms that clinicians may encounter in practice. In cases with a high index suspicion of vascular involvement or an adverse response to assessment/intervention, appropriate referral should be made for further investigations, using consistent terminology. The term 'vascular flow limitation' is proposed when considering the range of mechanisms at play. This fits the terminology used (in vascular literature) at other anatomical sites and is understood by medical colleagues.

A rare case of arterial tortuosity syndrome in an adult

Arterial tortuosity syndrome (ATS) is rare autosomal recessive connective tissue disorder. It affects large and medium-sized arteries inducing tortuosity and elongation. Typical skeletal manifestations are dysmorphic features, hyperextensible skin, hypermobile joints, and congenital contractures. We present a case of a 33-year-old female, with history of multiple abdominal wall hernias, who was diagnosed with ATS by preoperative investigations based on typical vascular manifestations. We will present the radiological findings of this rare condition.

Simplified classification of cavernous internal carotid artery tortuosity: a predictor of procedural complexity and clinical outcomes in mechanical thrombectomy

OBJECTIVES

Thromboaspiration catheters are increasingly used for the endovascular treatment of large vessel stroke (LVS), while tortuous vascular anatomy still remains one major challenge in mechanical thrombectomy. Prompt assessing and understanding cavernous internal carotid artery (cICA) tortuosity may help to predict procedural complexities of mechanical thrombectomy and thus improve the clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed on a cohort of LVS patients with thromboaspiration catheter. Simplified classification of cICA tortuosity was applied by measurement of the angle of the posterior genus (P) and the height from the peak of the posterior genu to the trough of the anterior genu (D). Statistical analyses were performed to analyze differences among the obtained types of cICA tortuosity regarding procedural characteristics and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 150 patients with LVS proximal to the internal ICA terminus and middle cerebral artery (MCA) were included in this study, and three types of cICA tortuosity were defined by the simplified classification. The index, such as patients ages and hypertension, procedural fluoroscopy time, the degree of cICA tortuosity, first-pass success, final reperfusion, and 90-day mortality showed significant differences among the three types (P < 0.05), while 90-day good outcome (mRS 0-2) only presented significant difference between Type I and Type III (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The study indicated that the grading of cICA tortuosity is highly correlated with procedural complexity and clinical outcome in mechanical thrombectomy. The proposed classification system may be helpful in pre-procedure prognostication complexity and clinical outcomes.Abbreviations:LVS: large vessel stroke; cICA: cavernous internal carotid artery; mRS: modified Rankin Scale; AIS: acute ischemic stroke; MCA: middle cerebral artery; M1: first division of middle cerebral artery; M2: second division of middle cerebral artery; M3: third division of middle cerebral artery; TICI: Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction; TICI 2b: two-thirds of occluded territory reperfusion; DSA: digital subtraction angiography; FT: fluoroscopy time.

Predictors of First-Pass Effect in Endovascular Thrombectomy With Stent-Retriever Devices for Acute Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke

Background and Purpose

Successful recanalization after the first pass of the device in endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) can significantly improve patients' prognosis. We aimed to investigate the possible factors that influence achieving the first-pass effect (FPE).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the patients who underwent EVT caused by anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke (ALVOS) in our center. The FPE was defined as a successful recanalization [modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) 2b/3 defined as modified FPE (mFPE); mTICI 3 as true FPE (tFPE)] after one pass of the device without rescue therapy. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to explore the predictors of FPE and the relationship between FPE and prognosis.

Results

There were 278 patients (age, 69.3 ± 10.9 years, male, 51.1%) included, 30.2% of them achieved mFPE, while 21.2% achieved tFPE. We found the higher clot burden score (CBS), the truncal-type occlusion, and the favorable anatomy of both extracranial and intracranial segments of the internal carotid artery (ICA) were associated with achieving mFPE. The higher CBS and truncal-type occlusion were statistically significant predictors of tFPE. Moreover, FPE was significantly associated with improved clinical outcomes, regardless of mFPE and tFPE.

Conclusions

The CBS, tortuosity of ICA, and angiographic occlusion type were independent predictors of achieving FPE. The rate of improved clinical and safety outcomes was higher in patients with FPE, which has important clinical significance.

Headache characteristics and frequency of migraine in patients with cervical artery dissections

Headache is a common symptom of cervical artery dissections (CAD). Sometimes, it can be the only symptom and mimic migraine. We aimed to investigate headache characteristics and previous history of migraine in CAD patients, and to compare headache features between patients with internal carotid artery dissection (ICAD) and vertebral artery dissection (VAD). We investigated 53 CAD patients (n = 28 with ICAD, n = 25 with VAD). Demographic and clinical data were evaluated retrospectively. Headache information was obtained from the patient interviews with a structured questionnaire (based on the International Headache Society criteria). The patients with headache were assessed by headache specialist with a face-to-face interview. Headache was evaluated according to International Classification Committee of the International Headache Society ICHD. Headache (n = 38, 71.7%) was the most common symptom in CAD patients, which was mostly thunderclap, throbbing, intense and ipsilateral to dissection. Headache frequency and neck pain were significantly higher in VAD patients (p = 0.002, p < 0.001, respectively). Photophobia and phonophobia were also more common in patients with VAD (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). 29 (54.7%) of CAD patients had a prior history of headache, that 20 (37.7%) of them met the migraine criteria. CAD should be considered in patients with severe unilateral throbbing headache with phonophobia and photophobia, even in patients with a history of migraine. Phonophobia and photophobia may be more common symptoms in VAD patients. Because headache commonly precedes the development of cerebral ischemic events, it needs prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Assessing the Suitability of the Carotid Bifurcation for Stenting: Anatomic and Morphologic Considerations

OBJECTIVE

Over the years where stents have been used to treat carotid lesions, a great deal has been learned about which anatomical characteristics lead to adverse outcomes. This review summarizes the anatomic and morphologic characteristics of the carotid vasculature that can help guide patient selection and clinical decision-making.

METHODS

Each of the carotid artery anatomy and lesion characteristics that are relevant to carotid stenting are described in detail. These are accompanied with evidence-based outcomes and results.

RESULTS

Data on the prevalence of carotid artery lesions that are unsuitable for stenting are summarized and the implications of these data for practice are discussed, especially as they pertain to transcarotid artery revascularization.

CONCLUSIONS

CAS can be viable option for carotid revascularization, but the lesion must be acceptable and safe for stent placement. There should be thorough assessment to rule out the presence of severe tortuosity, long-segment disease, severe calcification (circumferential or exophytic), mobile-plaque, swollen ICA sign, and carotid diameters outside the acceptable range. In carefully chosen lesions with the absence of the unfavorable characteristics described-TCAR may offer improved periprocedural success, and CAS may attain better long-term durability.

Prevalence of Cervical Artery Abnormalities on CTA in Patients with Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: Fibromuscular Dysplasia, Dissection, Aneurysm, and Tortuosity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Little is known about associations between spontaneous coronary artery dissection and cervical artery abnormalities. This study sought to assess the prevalence of cervical artery abnormalities among patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis was completed of patients who underwent CTA neck imaging as part of arterial assessment following the diagnosis of spontaneous coronary artery dissection. The internal carotid and vertebral arteries were evaluated for the presence of fibromuscular dysplasia, dissection and/or pseudoaneurysm, ectasia and/or aneurysmal dilation, atherosclerosis, and webs. Carotid tortuosity was categorized into kinks, loops, coils, and retrojugular and/or retropharyngeal carotid courses; vertebral tortuosity was classified by subjective analysis of severity.

RESULTS

Two hundred fourteen patients were included in the final cohort, of whom 205 (95.8%) were women; the average age was 54.4 years. Fibromuscular dysplasia was the most frequently observed abnormality (83 patients; 38.8%), followed by dissections and/or pseudoaneurysms (n = 28; 13.1%), ectasia and/or aneurysmal dilation (n = 22; 10.3%), and carotid webs (n = 10; 4.7%). At least 1 type of carotid tortuosity was present in 99 patients (46.3%). The majority (n = 185; 86.4%) of patients had no carotid atherosclerosis; and 26 (12.2%) had mild; 3 (1.4%), moderate; and 0, severe carotid atherosclerosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The most common abnormality in the cervical artery vasculature of patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection is fibromuscular dysplasia. Cervical dissections were higher than previously reported but were not observed in most patients.

Increased Internal Carotid Artery Tortuosity is a Risk Factor for Spontaneous Cervicocerebral Artery Dissection

OBJECTIVE

Spontaneous cervicocerebral artery dissection (sCCD) is an important cause of ischaemic stroke that often occurs in young and middle aged patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between tortuosity of the carotid artery and sCCD.

METHODS

Patients with confirmed sCCD who underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) were reviewed retrospectively. Age and sex matched patients having CTA were used as controls. The tortuosity indices of the cervical arteries were measured from the CTA images. The carotid siphon and the extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) were evaluated according to morphological classification. The carotid siphons were classified into five types. The extracranial ICA was categorised as simple tortuosity, coiling or kinking. Independent risk factors for sCCD were investigated using multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

The study included sixty-six patients with sCCD and 66 controls. There were no differences in vascular risk factors between the two groups. The internal carotid tortuosity index (ICTI) (25.24 ± 12.37 vs. 15.90 ± 8.55, respectively; p < .001) and vertebral tortuosity index (VTI) (median 11.28; interquartile range [IQR] 6.88, 18.80 vs. median 8.38; IQR 6.02, 12.20, respectively; p = .008) were higher in the patients with sCCD than in the controls. Type III and Type IV carotid siphons were more common in the patients with sCCD (p = .001 and p < .001, respectively). The prevalence of any vessel tortuosity, coiling and kinking of the extracranial ICA was higher in the patients with sCCD (p < .001, p = .018 and p = .006, respectively). ICTI (odds ratio [OR] 2.964; p = .026), VTI (OR 5.141; p = .009), and Type III carotid siphons (OR 4.654; p = .003) were independently associated with the risk of sCCD.

CONCLUSION

Arterial tortuosity is associated with sCCD, and greater tortuosity of the cervical artery may indicate an increased risk of arterial dissection.

Neonatal Arterial Tortuosity and Adult Aortic Aneurysm-Is There a Missing Link?-A Case Report

We report a novel case of a full term newborn with non-immune fetal hydrops and arterial tortuosity mimicking a double aortic arch, and cranial fractures in the immediate neonatal period. The infant had no classic features of neonatal arterial tortuosity syndrome or Loeys Dietz syndrome apart from bilateral inguinal hernia. He also had skeletal manifestations in the form of fractures in the neonatal period without any trauma during birth and without clinical evidence of Osteogenesis Imperfecta. A heterozygous missense variant of uncertain significance was detected in MYH11 gene which is increasingly recognized to be belonging to the familial/hereditary thoracic aneurysm and aortic dissection group of disorders. Fetal hydrops as an association with arterial tortuosity has not been reported in the literature. We hypothesize the possible mechanism behind developing fetal hydrops in this case and discuss the genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity of the Familial Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection (FTAAD) group of conditions highlighting the unique phenotypic and genotypic presentations. We recommend a high index of suspicion and vigilance in the early detection of such potentially lethal conditions with sequelae also in adulthood.

Cervical Carotid Artery Dolichoectasia as a Marker of Increased Vascular Risk

Cervical carotid artery (cCA) dolichoectasia (DE) is characterized by elongation, tortuosity, and/or dilatation. The prevalence of cCA DE has been reported 13-31% in population-based and 14-58% in hospital-based studies. The exact mechanisms of this aberrant arterial remodeling are unknown. Although atherosclerosis has often been implicated, the evidence has conflicting results that would support atherosclerosis as the underlying pathology. Actually, other nonatherosclerotic mechanisms related to connective tissue remodeling may play a role. Such mechanism is supported by epidemiological evidence that cCA DE is associated with carotid dissections. Similarly, cCA DE has been associated with vascular risk factors, but inconsistently. Fewer studies have evaluated the risk of vascular events in people with cCA DE. Cross-sectionally, cCA DE is associated with cerebrovascular disease, including white matter hyperintensities, lacunar stroke, and stroke overall. The often-conflicting results may in part be due to the heterogeneity of the population studies and variable definitions used. Preferential use of objective measure of cCA DE, such as carotid length, is advisable, and may help comparing result among different studies. Prospectively, people with cCA DE have a higher risk of vascular events, although it is uncertain if the risk of stroke is also higher in this population. In the absence of alternative stroke etiologies, stroke patients with cCA DE should be considered to have had a cryptogenic stroke and treated with daily antiplatelet therapy. Further population-based studies are needed to clarify whether specific therapies may be implement to reduce the risk of events among people with cCA DE.

Anatomical Variations of Vertebrobasilar Artery are Closely Related to the Occurrence of Vertebral Artery Dissection-An MR Angiography Study

GOAL

Intracranial arterial dissection is a major cause of ischemic stroke and subarachnoid hemorrhage in relatively young patients. We assessed the hypothesis that the tortuosity of the vertebrobasilar artery is associated with the occurrence of vertebral artery (VA) dissection, using MR angiography (MRA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study enrolled 43 patients with VA dissection, and 63 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects were used as the controls. MRA was employed to evaluate the presence of dominant VA and the lateral shift of vertebrobasilar junction in both groups. The VA diameters were considered different when the difference was greater than .3 mm. These anatomical variations were divided into 3 types: Type 1 (vertebrobasilar junction within 2 mm from the midline), Type 2 (>2 mm-lateral shift of vertebrobasilar junction to the ipsilateral side of the dominant VA), and Type 3 (>2 mm-lateral shift of vertebrobasilar junction to the contralateral side of the dominant VA).

FINDINGS

The presence of dominant VA and the lateral shift of vertebrobasilar junction were more prevalent in patients with VA dissection than in the controls (OR: 3.46, P = .013, and OR: 4.51, P = .001, respectively). The lateral shift of vertebrobasilar junction was classified into Type 1 (n = 6), Type 2 (n = 13), and Type 3 (n = 17) among patients with VA dissection, while into Type 1 (n = 20), Type 2 (n = 8), and Type 3 (n = 7) among the controls. Type 3 predominance was observed in patients with VA dissection (P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

Anatomical variations of the vertebrobasilar artery may play an important role in the occurrence of VA dissection.

Cervical internal carotid artery tortuosity: A morphologic analysis of patients with acute ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cervical internal carotid artery (ICA) tortuosity is thought to impede distal catheterization during attempted mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke. This study sought to assess the morphologic characteristics of ICAs and the effects of tortuosity on thrombectomy attempts.

METHODS

A retrospective review was completed of neck CTAs of patients with acute ischemic stroke due to a large vessel occlusion that underwent attempted endovascular recanalization. Significant tortuosity of ICAs was defined as the presence of kink(s) (acute (<90°) angulation), loop(s) (C- or S-shaped curvature with 2+ areas of acute (<90°) angulation), or coil(s) (full 360° turn arterial bend). Findings were statistically compared to procedure time, successful recanalization rate, patient demographics, and co-morbidities.

RESULTS

Of 120 included patients, 47 (39.2%) had some form of tortuosity of one or both ICAs. Twenty-eight patients (23.3%) had a kink of one or both ICAs; this was followed in frequency by loops (n = 20; 16.7%) and coils (n = 8; 6.7%). Kinks were associated with lower rates of successful recanalization (p = 0.02). The presence of any tortuosity (kinks, loops, or coils) was not associated with number of passes during thrombectomy (p = 0.88), successful recanalization (p = 0.11), or total procedure time (p = 0.22). No association was noted between the presence of tortuosity and age (p = 0.96) or prior or current tobacco use (p = 0.75 and p = 0.69, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Among patients referred for urgent revascularization for large vessel occlusion, approximately 40% exhibit some tortuosity. Kinks may portend lower likelihood of recanalization success, although tortuosity as a whole seems to have little effect on endovascular thrombectomy.

Carotid Artery Tortuosity Is Associated with Connective Tissue Diseases

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

There is a general assumption in the cerebrovascular literature that there is an association between carotid artery tortuosity and connective tissues disease; however, this has not been firmly established. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of carotid artery tortuosity in patients with connective tissue diseases relative to matched controls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with previous CTA or MRA and a diagnosis of connective tissue diseases were identified and compared with a cohort of age-matched controls. Radiologists blinded to the diagnosis reviewed the images and evaluated the presence of carotid artery tortuosity (including loops, kinks, or coils). Continuous variables were compared using the Student t test, and categoric variables with χ² tests.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-three patients with connective tissue disease and 143 controls were included in this study. Specific diagnoses included Marfan (n = 33), nonvascular Ehlers-Danlos (n = 36), Ehlers-Danlos vascular-type (n = 32), neurofibromatosis type 1 (n = 26), and Loeys-Dietz (n = 16) syndromes. The presence of carotid tortuosity was 44% in connective tissue disease and 16% in controls (P < .001). Of tortuosity manifestations, coils were most prevalent (23% versus 3%; P < .001). Among the various connective tissue diseases, the rates of any carotid tortuosity were 88% for Marfan syndrome, 63% for Loeys-Dietz syndrome, 42% for neurofibromatosis type 1, and 19% for both vascular- and nonvascular-type Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. The positive predictive value of the combination of aortic aneurysm and carotid tortuosity being associated with connective tissue disease was 95.4%. The specificity was 98.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

Carotid artery tortuosity is highly associated with connective tissue diseases, particularly Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, and neurofibromatosis type 1. Such findings are relevant in risk assessment for vascular complications in connective tissue disease, endovascular treatment planning, and in understanding the pathomechanisms of vascular tortuosity in general.

Extracranial internal carotid artery tortuosity may cause vocal cord palsy

BACKGROUND

Clinical practice made us suspect that vocal cord palsy (VCP) can be associated with extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) tortuosity.

OBJECTIVES

To find evidence for a causative relation between ICA tortuosity and VCP.

METHODS

This single-center, retrospective study comprised 66 patients with VCP. A total of 45 patients without VCP served as control group. Patient charts were reviewed for etiology and side of VCP. CT scans were reviewed independently by two radiologists for imprint in the jugular vein (JV) caused by a tortuous ICA, considered an indirect sign of potential vagus nerve affection.

RESULTS

A total of 33 patients had idiopathic VCP. ICA tortuosity causing a JV imprint with >10% JV lumen reduction was found more frequently on the paretic sides of patients with idiopathic VCP (15-24%) than in controls (3-9%), with p<.05 for observer 2 and p=.07 for observer 1. In patients with idiopathic VCP and JV imprint with >10% JV lumen reduction on one or both sides (n = 9), both observers found JV imprint with >10% JV lumen reduction more frequently on the side of VCP (p<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

ICA tortuosity causing a JV imprint may be the cause of VCP in some of the cases of VCP currently regarded as idiopathic.

Neuroform Atlas stent in treatment of iatrogenic dissections of extracranial internal carotid and vertebral arteries: a single-centre experience

AIM OF THE STUDY

To present our experience in the treatment of iatrogenic dissections of extracranial internal carotid and vertebral arteries with the Neuroform Atlas stent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2017 and February 2018 we treated iatrogenic dissections of three internal carotid arteries and three vertebral arteries. These iatrogenic dissections occurred during the endovascular treatment of ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms. The indication for stenting was haemodynamically significant, flow-limiting dissection with threatening flow arrest. In all six cases, the dissections were treated by placement of Neuroform Atlas stents in the dissected segments of internal carotid or vertebral arteries. Deployment of the stent was followed by the usual dual antiplatelet regimen.

RESULTS

Single or multiple Neuroform Atlas stents were deployed without any technical difficulties, and blood flow was restored immediately after placement of the stents in all six cases. Midterm follow-up (6-8 months) showed complete reconstruction of the shape and lumen of all treated arteries, with negligible intimal hyperplasia.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that a favourable outcome can be achieved by treating iatrogenic dissections of extracranial internal carotid and vertebral arteries with the Neuroform Atlas stent.

Effect of Carotid Artery Morphological Variations on Cognitive Function

Background

Carotid artery morphological variations (CAMV) are common variations on medical imaging; the effects of CAMV on cognition were still unknown. This study is aimed at investigating whether carotid artery morphological variations (CAMV) cause cognitive impairment.

Methods

Hospitalized patients from March 2017 to October 2017 who underwent digital subtract angiography (DSA) were divided into non-CAMV group, T-type group, K-type group, and C-type group according to their carotid artery morphology. Cognitive function in each group was evaluated with the Mini-Mental State Scale (MMSE), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Verbal Fluency Test (VFT), and the Digital Span Test (DST).

Results

A total of 96 patients were included in the study (32 in non-CAMV group, 34 in T-type group, 30 in K-type group, and none in C-group). The positive rate of MMSE in the non-CAMV group, the T-type group, and the K-type group was 15.6%, 14.7%, and 20.0%, respectively, with no statistical difference in the three groups (p = 0.836). The positive rate of MoCA in the K-type group was significantly higher than that in the non-CAMV and the T-type groups (p < 0.001), but there was no significant difference between the non-CAMV group and the T-type group (p = 0.826). The VFT, DST forward score, and backward score in the K-type group were significantly lower than those in the non-CAMV and the T-type groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

K-type CAMV may cause cognitive impairment, and MoCA is superior to MMSE in identifying mild cognitive impairment caused by CAMV.

The potential dangers of neck manipulation & risk for dissection and devastating stroke: An illustrative case & review of the literature

Chiropractic cervical manipulation is a common practice utilized around the world. Most patients are never cleared medically for manipulation, which can be devastating for those few who are at increased risk for dissections. The high velocity thrust used in cervical manipulation can produce significant strain on carotid and vertebral vessels. Once a dissection has occurred, the risk of thrombus formation, ischemic stroke, paralysis, and even death is drastically increased. In this case report, we highlight a case of a 32-year-old woman who underwent chiropractic manipulation and had vertebral artery dissection with subsequent brainstem infarct. She quickly deteriorated and passed away shortly after arrival to the hospital. Although rare, one in 48 chiropractors have experienced such an event. We utilize this case to highlight the risk associated with cervical manipulation and urge open dialogue between chiropractors and physicians. Receiving medical clearance prior to cervical manipulation in potential at risk patients would drastically reduce morbidity and mortality.

Recipient umbilical artery elongation (redundancy) in twin-twin transfusion syndrome

BACKGROUND

Chronic hypertension in adults causes arterial lengthening in major arteries, but the effects of early fetal hypertension on the twin-twin transfusion syndrome recipient's vascular architecture remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We hypothesize that arterial cord redundancy is related to recipient hypertension and subsequent heart failure. Our objectives were to: (1) establish a 3-dimensional color Doppler ultrasound method of measuring umbilical arterial length relative to its corresponding venous segment in the umbilical cord using artery vein angle; (2) compare recipient artery vein angle to gestational age-matched controls; and (3) test the association of artery vein angle with recipient heart failure.

STUDY DESIGN

We compared 3 groups prospectively: twin-twin transfusion syndrome pregnancies undergoing fetoscopic laser surgery (preoperatively) and 2 groups of gestational age-matched controls: uncomplicated monochorionic-diamniotic twin pregnancies and healthy singletons. Using a 3-dimensional color-Doppler volume image of 5 cm of cord near the placental insertion, we traced the umbilical artery and vein producing umbilical artery:vein length, (artery vein index) and measured the artery vein angle between umbilical artery and vein. Correlation of artery vein angle to twin-twin transfusion syndrome stage, maximum vertical pocket, umbilical arterial indices, ductus venosus Doppler, and brain natriuretic peptide were performed. We used pulsed-wave and tissue Doppler to measure tissue Doppler velocities and indexed cardiac output and correlated these with artery vein angle. Comparative statistics, including multivariable linear regression, examined the relationship between umbilical arterial Doppler indices and artery vein angle.

RESULTS

Artery vein angle and artery vein index correlated significantly (R², 0.86; P < .0001), hence, artery vein angle was used for analysis. Mean artery vein angle was 33.1 ± 31.5 degrees in recipients (n = 44), 9.5 ± 6 degrees in monochorionic-diamniotic (n = 11; 22 fetuses), and 8.9 ± 8.3 degrees in singleton controls (n = 16) (P < .001). An artery vein angle ≥26 degrees (>95th percentile for controls) was measured in 52% recipients. Artery vein angle was higher in twin-twin transfusion syndrome stage 3R vs 1 (P = .001). Artery vein angle increased with increasing umbilical arterial pulsatility index (P < .001), and decreased with increasing resistance index (P = .02) after adjusting for gestational age. Interrater agreements to categorize abnormal artery vein angle values was 95% (P < .001). Abnormal ductus venosus Doppler and elevated recipient amniotic fluid N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide/protein levels correlated significantly with artery vein angle. Abnormal artery vein angles were associated with decreased indexed cardiac output, lower tissue Doppler velocities, higher right-sided Tei indices, and severe tricuspid regurgitation.

CONCLUSION

Umbilical arterial lengthening occurs in 52% of recipients and is associated with abnormal Doppler flows, low systolic tissue Doppler velocities, reduced cardiac output, and elevated markers of cardiac failure. This may reflect chronicity and severity of hypertension in the recipient fetus. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms of elongation and long-term implications.

Current Understanding of Dolichoarteriopathies of the Internal Carotid Artery: A Review

Dolichoarteriopathies of the internal carotid artery (DICAs) are not uncommon, and although several studies have investigated DICAs, several questions regarding the etiology and best management course for DICAs remain unanswered. It is also difficult to correlate the occurrence of DICAs with the onset of clinical symptoms. Therefore, we surveyed the literature in PubMed and performed a review of DICAs to offer a comprehensive picture of our understanding of DICAs. We found that DICAs can be classified into three types, specifically tortuous, coiling and kinking, and are not associated with atherosclerotic risk factors. Cerebral hemodynamic changes are mainly associated with the degree of bending of DICAs. DICAs can result in symptoms of the brain and eyes due to insufficient blood supply and can co-occur with a pulsatile cervical mass, a pharyngeal bulge and pulsation. The diagnostic tools for the assessment of DICAs include Doppler ultrasonography, computed tomography angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA), and although DSA remains the gold standard, Doppler ultrasonography is a convenient method that provides useful data for the morphological evaluation of DICAs. CTA and MRA are efficient methods for detecting the morphology of the cervical segment of DICAs. Some DICAs should be treated surgically based on certain indications, and several methods, including correcting the bending or shortening of DICAs, have been developed for the treatment of DICAs. The appropriate treatment of DICAs results in good outcomes and is associated with low morbidity and mortality rates. However, despite the success of surgical reconstruction, an appropriate therapeutic treatment remains a subject of numerous debates due to the lack of multicentric, randomized, prospective studies.

Internal Carotid Artery S-Shaped Curve as a Marker of Fibromuscular Dysplasia in Dissection-Related Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Craniocervical fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is associated with dissections and with S-shaped curves in the internal carotid artery (ICA). We evaluated the occurrence of S-curves in patients presenting with acute strokes due to ICA steno-occlusive dissections.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of the interventional databases of two academic tertiary-care institutions. The presence of ICA S-shaped curves, C-shaped curves, 360-degree loops, as well as classic FMD and atherosclerotic changes at the ICA bulb and curve/loop was determined. Cases of carotid dissections were compared with a control group (consecutive non-tandem anterior circulation strokes).

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients with carotid dissections were compared to 92 controls. Baseline characteristics and procedural variables were similar, with the exception of younger age, less frequent history of hypertension, diabetes, atrial fibrillation and stent retriever use in patients with dissections. The rates of mTICI2b-3 reperfusion, parenchymal hematoma, good outcome and mortality were similar amongst groups. The frequency of S-curves (any side without superimposed atherosclerosis) was 29% in the dissection group versus 7% in controls (p < 0.01). S-curves were typically mirror images within the dissection group (85% had bilateral occurrence). The frequency of C-shaped and 360-degree curves was similar between groups. FMD changes within the craniocervical arteries were statistically more common in dissection patients. Ten patients (41%) of the dissection group had S-curves or classic FMD changes. Multivariate analysis indicated that S-curves were independently associated with the presence of dissections.

CONCLUSION

S-shaped ICA curves are predictably bilateral, highly associated with carotid dissections in patients with moderate to severe strokes, and may suggest an underlying presence of FMD.

Internal carotid artery redundancy and dissection in a young cocaine abuser

Carotid artery redundancies are common findings on routine imaging studies and are usually considered to be benign variants. We present a case of a 40-year-old man, with a history of cocaine abuse, who was diagnosed with dissection of the right internal carotid artery and looping of the bilateral internal carotid arteries. This report attempts to highlight the possible association between carotid artery redundancy and dissection, especially in the context of vascular injury such as cocaine abuse, as in our case.

Carotid artery dissection following adenoidectomy

Carotid dissection and cerebral infarction are extremely rare complications of adenoidectomy. We describe the case of seven year old girl, who suffered from left internal carotid artery dissection following adenoidectomy, leading to right hemiplegia with global aphasia. A CT angiogram confirmed a loop in contralateral right internal carotid artery. It is presumed that a similar loop also existed in left internal carotid artery, which possibly extended medially close to posterior pharyngeal wall and was injured during the course of surgery.

Cervical Artery Dissection: A Review of the Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Treatment, and Outcome

CONTEXT

Cervical artery dissection (CAD) is a common cause of stroke in young adults. There is controversy over whether anticoagulation is superior to antiplatelet therapy in preventing stroke in patients with CAD, although meta-analyses to date have not shown any difference between the two treatments.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We performed a PubMed search using each of the keywords: "Cervical artery dissection", "Dissection", "Carotid dissection", and "Vertebral dissection" between January 1^st, 1990 and July 1^st 2015. We identified evidence-based peer-reviewed articles, including randomized trials, case series and reports, and retrospective reviews that encompass the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, pathophysiology, treatment, and outcome of cervical artery dissection.

RESULTS

This paper highlights the mechanisms of cervical artery dissection and stroke in patients with dissection as well as the natural history and treatment.

CONCLUSION

Given the relatively rare incidence of this disease, multicenter studies with collaborative effort among stroke centers worldwide should be considered to enroll patients with cervical artery dissection in a randomized trial comparing the two treatments.

The S curve: a novel morphological finding in the internal carotid artery in patients with fibromuscular dysplasia

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-atherosclerotic vascular disease commonly affecting the renal and internal carotid arteries (ICAs). A previously unrecognized finding is a redundancy of the mid-distal ICA in FMD patients causing an 'S'-shaped curve. Carotid artery duplex ultrasounds were reviewed in 116 FMD patients to determine S-curve prevalence. FMD patients with an S curve were matched to four control patients divided equally into two groups: (1) age and sex-matched and (2) age ≥70 and sex-matched. S curves were present in 37 (32%) FMD patients. Of these, nine (24%) had angiographic evidence of FMD in their ICA only, 13 (35%) had renal artery FMD only, and 15 (41%) had both ICA and renal FMD. Two patients in the age and sex-matched group had S curves (odds ratio 16.86, 95% CI 3.92-72.48; p<0.0001) while 12 (16.2%) patients in the age ≥70 and sex-matched group had S curves (odds ratio 2.42, 95% CI 1.16-5.03; p=0.016). In conclusion, the S curve is a novel morphological pattern of the mid-distal ICA. While the S curve may not be specific, its presence in individuals <70 years old should alert the clinician to the possibility that FMD is present.

Pathophysiology and risk factors of cervical artery dissection: what have we learnt from large hospital-based cohorts?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Cervical artery dissection (CeAD) is a major cause of ischemic stroke in young and middle-aged adults, although relatively uncommon in the community. Recent large collaborative projects have provided new insights into mechanisms and risk factors of CeAD.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pathologic changes observed at the media-adventitia border in temporal arteries of CeAD patients suggest a predisposing arterial wall weakness. In large multicenter series of CeAD patients, compared to age-matched healthy controls and patients with an ischemic stroke of another cause, hypertension and migraine, especially without aura, were confirmed as risk factors for CeAD, in addition to cervical trauma and recent infection. Hypercholesterolemia and being overweight were shown to be inversely associated with CeAD. Differences in risk factor profile and structural features between carotid and vertebral dissection suggest that their pathophysiology may partly differ. An association of CeAD with fibromuscular dysplasia and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome was described. Genetic risk factors of CeAD are still poorly understood.

SUMMARY

Large cohorts of CeAD patients have refined our understanding of the pathophysiology and risk factors of CeAD, but the molecular mechanisms are still poorly understood. Ongoing high-throughput genetic projects will hopefully provide novel insight into the biological substrate of CeAD.

The location of origin of spontaneous extracranial internal carotid artery dissection is adjacent to the skull base

INTRODUCTION

The traditional view is that spontaneous extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) dissection (CAD) extends cranially from an intimal tear located just beyond the carotid bulb. This paper demonstrates that CAD originates in and primarily involves a more distal segment of the artery.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 54 dissected ICAs in 50 consecutive patients with spontaneous or traumatic CAD was undertaken. The site of the dissection, presence of ICA redundancy, rate of acute or delayed ischaemic stroke and vessel remodelling were determined.

RESULTS

Of the 51 dissections that occurred spontaneously or after indirect trauma, 25/51 (49.0%) were solely in the distal third of the artery, and 49/51 (96.1%) involved the distal two-thirds. Only 2/51 (3.9%) originated in the proximal third. ICA redundancy was seen in 27/36 (75%) of patients with spontaneous CAD, compared with only 1/11 (9.1%) of those with CAD due to indirect trauma (P = 0.0002). Acute stroke occurred in 10/12 (83.3%) of patients with ICA occlusion secondary to CAD and in 14/38 (36.8%) with non-occlusive CAD (P = 0.0074). Where follow-up was available, only 2/32 (6.3%) patients had a stroke after diagnosis, and 19/33 (57.6%) ICAs recanalised or remodelled.

CONCLUSION

CAD occurring spontaneously or due to indirect trauma most frequently involves the distal extracranial ICA. Spontaneous CAD is associated with vessel redundancy, and the risk of acute stroke is greatest with occlusive CAD. The prognosis is good with treatment, with a low rate of recurrent stroke and a high rate of vessel remodelling.

Stent recanalization of carotid tonsillar loop dissection using the Enterprise vascular reconstruction device

Although advances in endovascular techniques have permitted reconstruction of intimal dissections and related pseudoaneurysms of the extracranial cervical internal carotid artery, highly tortuous tonsillar loop anatomic variants still pose an obstacle to conventional extracranial self-expanding carotid stents. During a 12 year period, nine of 48 cases with cervical carotid dissections were associated with a tonsillar loop. Five patients required endovascular treatment, which was performed using a microcatheter-based technique with the low-profile Enterprise vascular reconstruction device (Codman Neurovascular, Raynham, MA, USA). Technical, radiographic, and clinical outcomes were analyzed for each patient. Dissection etiology was spontaneous in three patients, iatrogenic in one, and traumatic in one. Four near-occlusive tonsillar loop dissections were successfully recanalized during the acute phase. Dissection-related stenosis improved from 90±22% to 31±13%, with tandem stents needed in three instances to seal the inflow zone. There were no procedure-related transient ischemic attacks (TIA), minor/major strokes, or deaths. Angiographic follow-up for a mean of 28.0±21.6 months showed all stents were patent, with average stenosis of 25.2±12.2%. Focal ovalization and kinking of the closed-cell design was noted at the sharpest curve in one patient. Clinical outcome (follow-up of 28.1±21.5 months) demonstrated overall improvement with no clinical worsening, new TIA, or stroke. Tonsillar loop-associated carotid dissections can be successfully and durably recanalized using the low-profile Enterprise stent with an excellent long-term patency rate and low procedural risk. The possibility of stent kinking and low radial force should be considered when planning reconstruction with this device.

Vocal cord paralysis secondary to spontaneous internal carotid dissection: case report and systematic review of the literature

OBJECTIVES

To present a rare case of unilateral vocal cord paralysis (VCP) secondary to spontaneous internal carotid artery dissection and to perform a literature review.

CASE REPORT

A 35-year-old male presented to the emergency department with acute onset hoarseness and dysphagia. History, physical exam and laryngoscopy revealed left sided VCP without obvious cause. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) demonstrated a left internal carotid artery dissection of unknown etiology. Neurovascular surgery was consulted and treatment with aspirin was initiated. The dysphagia and hoarseness resolved in 12 weeks with long-term neurosurgery follow-up as the management plan.

METHODS

Systematic literature review was conducted by 3 independent reviewers. Since 1988 only 9 cases of VCP due to internal carotid artery dissection have been reported. These were reviewed for: demographics, diagnostic method, treatment and vocal cord function.

RESULTS

7 patients had unilateral while 2 had bilateral VCP. MRI was used for diagnosis in 7 cases and 5 cases utilized a type of angiography. All received antithrombotic treatment with 5 out of the 9 patients experiencing vocal cord recovery in an average of 7.2 weeks.

CONCLUSION

MRI is crucial in the work-up of idiopathic VCP. If an ipsilateral internal carotid artery dissection is found, antithrombotic treatment is initiated with an expectation that vocal cord mobility is likely to return.

The etiology of cervical artery dissection

The etiology of cervical artery dissection (CAD) is unclear, although a number of risk factors have been reported to be associated with the condition. On rare occasions, patients experience CAD after cervical spine manipulation, making knowledge about the cervical arteries, the predisposing factors, and the pathogenesis of the condition of interest to chiropractors. This commentary reports on the relevant anatomy of the cervical arteries, developmental features of CAD, epidemiology of the condition, and mechanisms of dissection. The analysis of CAD risk factors is confusing, however, because many people are exposed to mechanical events and known pathophysiological associations without ever experiencing dissection. No cause-and-effect relationship has been established between cervical spine manipulation and CAD, but it seems that cervical manipulation may be capable of triggering dissection in a susceptible patient or contributing to the evolution of an already existing CAD. Despite the many risk factors that have been proposed as possible causes of CAD, it is still unknown which of them actually predispose patients to CAD after cervical spine manipulation.