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Cervical arterial dissection: current concepts

Ranjith K Menon1, John W Norris

  • 1Department of Neurology, The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Liverpool, United Kingdom. drranjuygc@yahoo.co.uk

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|November 8, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Cervical arterial dissection (CAD), a cause of stroke, is surprisingly common, as shown by advances in noninvasive imaging. This review covers current understanding and management of CAD, incorporating new neurovascular imaging and treatment discoveries.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Noninvasive imaging techniques have increased in use and safety.
  • These advances reveal cervical arterial dissection (CAD) is a frequent cause of stroke.
  • Understanding of CAD is evolving rapidly.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of current concepts and practices for managing patients with CAD.
  • To highlight the evolving nature of CAD understanding.
  • To integrate recent discoveries in neurovascular imaging and patient management.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current concepts in CAD.
  • Synthesis of recent advancements in neurovascular imaging.
  • Analysis of current medical and surgical management strategies for CAD.

Main Results:

  • Cervical arterial dissection (CAD) is a significant and often underrecognized cause of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
  • Noninvasive imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing CAD.
  • Management strategies are continually being refined based on new evidence.

Conclusions:

  • CAD is a more common cause of stroke than previously recognized.
  • Ongoing research in neuroimaging and treatment is essential for improving patient outcomes.
  • A comprehensive understanding of CAD is critical for effective clinical practice.

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