Vertebral artery dissections refer to tears or breaks that occur in the inner layers of the vertebral arteries, which are blood vessels responsible for supplying blood to the brain. These dissections can result in the formation of blood clots or narrowing of the artery, which can reduce or even block blood flow to the brain, leading to various neurological symptoms.
The vertebral arteries run along the vertebral column, supplying blood to the posterior (back) part of the brain. Dissections of these arteries are most commonly caused by trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, neck injuries, or even sudden movements of the head. However, they can also occur spontaneously due to underlying conditions, such as connective tissue disorders or certain genetic factors.
People with vertebral artery dissections may experience symptoms such as sudden and severe headache, neck pain, dizziness, loss of balance, visual disturbances, or difficulty speaking. In severe cases, these dissections can lead to a stroke, which may present with symptoms like weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding, and vision problems.
Diagnosis of vertebral artery dissections typically involves imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or angiography, to visualize the blood vessels and identify any abnormalities. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the dissection, but can include medication to prevent blood clots, blood-thinning medications, and, in some cases, surgical interventions to repair or bypass the damaged artery.
