Endovascular embolization utilizes a minimally invasive technique to block off the blood supply to a specific part of an artery. It does not require an incision to be made into the skull. NeuroTexas is able to perform 3 different forms of endovascular embolization. The procedures have some similarities but they are primary used to treat different conditions.
Embolization
Used to treat
- Arteriovenous malformations
- Dural arteriovenous fistulas
Procedure
- a catheter is inserted in the groin and image guided through vessels up to the neck and brain.
- Once in place a material is injected through the catheter to close the specific vessel and stop blood flow to the fistula or malformation.
- Additional X-rays may be taken to ensure the vessel is effectively blocked/closed
- The catheter is removed and pressure is placed on the insertion site to stop bleeding then a dressing is applied.
- Usually embolization alone is enough to treat a dural arteriovenous fistula however an arteriovenous malformations may require additional surgery or treatment.
- Patient will remain flat for 12-24 hours following the procedure and expect to stay in the hospital for at least 1-2 days.
Endovascular Coiling
Used to treat
- Aneurysms
Procedure
- A catheter is inserted in the groin and image guided through vessels up to the neck and brain to the aneurysm.
- Once in place a contrast dye is injected to identify the aneurysm and blood flow of surrounding vessels via X-ray.
- Platinum coils are then released into the aneurysm. The doctor will use as many coils as necessary to fill the aneurysm and seal off the aneurysm.
- Once filled additional x-rays will be taken to ensure the aneurysm is sealed off.
- Once sealed the catheter is removed and pressure is placed on the insertion site to stop bleeding then a dressing applied.
- Patient will remain flat for 12-24 hours following the procedure and expect to stay in the hospital for at least 1-2 days.
Pipeline Embolization
Used to treat
- Aneurysms (large)
Procedure
- A catheter is inserted in the groin and image guided through vessels up to the neck and brain to the aneurysm.
- Once in place a contrast dye is injected to identify the aneurysm and blood flow of surrounding vessels via X-ray.
- The pipeline device is placed across the neck of the aneurysms, disrupting the follow of blood to the aneurysm.
- Once in place additional x-rays will be taken to ensure the device is correctly positioned and blood flow is to aneurysm is disrupted.
- Once sealed the catheter is removed and pressure is placed on the insertion site to stop bleeding then a dressing applied.
- Patient will remain flat for 12-24 hours following the procedure and expect to stay in the hospital for at least 1-2 days.
Not every aneurysm is a good candidate for coiling or pipeline embolization. Your neurosurgeon will discuss with you the best option for your individual condition. As always all procedures carry risk and you should discuss these along with any questions with our physicians and staff.
References: American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Barrow Neurological Institute, National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke, National Institute of Health, National Stroke Association.
