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Published on: March 2, 2015
Variations of the superior cerebellar artery: MR angiographic demonstration
Akira Uchino1, Akihiro Sawada, Yukinori Takase
1Department of Radiology, Saga Medical School, Japan.
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to describe variations of the proximal segments of the superior cerebellar artery (SCA) detected by magnetic resonance (MR) angiography.
Materials And Methods:
We reviewed 145 consecutive MR angiograms. All patients were studied with a 1.5-Tesla imager using the three-dimensional time-of-flight technique.
Results:
There were 16 duplicated SCAs in 13 patients, seven SCAs originating from the posterior cerebral arteries in six patients, four early bifurcations of the SCAs in four patients, and one SCA arising from the internal carotid artery. Because the SCA is small in caliber, the bilateral SCAs in nine patients could not be identified on MR angiograms owing to patient movement. In two patients with duplicated SCA, one of the duplicated trunks compressed the trigeminal nerve at the root entry zone, resulting in trigeminal neuralgia.
Conclusion:
Although most of these SCA variations have no clinical significance, preoperative identification of SCA variations is important for avoiding complications during surgery and/or for interventional procedures of the distal basilar artery.
Insights
Magnetic resonance angiography revealed variations in the superior cerebellar artery (SCA), including duplications and unusual origins. Identifying these anatomical differences is crucial for surgical and interventional procedures.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Vascular Anatomy
- Cerebrovascular Research
Background:
- The superior cerebellar artery (SCA) is a critical component of the posterior circulation.
- Variations in SCA anatomy can impact neurosurgical and endovascular procedures.
- Accurate visualization of vascular structures is essential for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the prevalence and types of proximal superior cerebellar artery (SCA) variations.
- To assess the utility of magnetic resonance (MR) angiography in identifying these anatomical anomalies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 145 consecutive MR angiograms.
- Utilized a 1.5-Tesla imager with a 3D time-of-flight (TOF) sequence.
- Analysis focused on the proximal segments of the SCA.
Main Results:
- Identified 16 duplicated SCAs in 13 patients.
- Observed seven SCAs originating from the posterior cerebral arteries.
- Documented four early SCA bifurcations and one SCA arising from the internal carotid artery.
- Trigeminal neuralgia was noted in two patients with duplicated SCA compressing the trigeminal nerve.
Conclusions:
- Most SCA variations identified are anatomically significant but may not have direct clinical implications.
- Preoperative identification of SCA variations is vital for neurosurgeons and interventionalists.
- Awareness of these variations aids in preventing surgical complications and optimizing interventional strategies.
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