Dissecting Vertebral Artery Aneurysm is a medical condition characterized by a tear or rupture in the wall of the vertebral artery, resulting in the formation of an aneurysm. The vertebral artery is responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the brain and is located in the neck, running up alongside the spinal column. Aneurysms are abnormal dilations or bulges in the blood vessels, and when they occur in the vertebral artery due to a tear, it results in a dissecting vertebral artery aneurysm.
This condition is typically caused by atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty plaques in the artery walls that harden and weaken the vessel. The tear in the artery wall can create a false channel, leading to blood flow within the layers of the arterial wall, hence the term "dissecting". Symptoms may include severe neck or head pain, dizziness, vision problems, or in severe cases, stroke-like symptoms.
Dissecting vertebral artery aneurysms are considered a medical emergency due to the potential risk of a rupture. Diagnosis is usually made through imaging tests such as an angiogram, computed tomography angiography (CTA), or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA).
Treatment options for dissecting vertebral artery aneurysms typically include endovascular procedures like stent placement or coiling to repair the affected artery and prevent further complications. In some cases, open surgical repair may be necessary to remove the damaged section of the artery and replace it with a graft.
Overall, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital in managing dissecting vertebral artery aneurysms to prevent potential life-threatening complications.
