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[Digital subtraction angiography in intracranial vascular malformations]
J Bohutová1, H Marková, J Neuwirth
1Radiodiagnostická klinika ILF, Praha.
Insights
Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) detected intracranial vascular malformations in 4% of cervicocranial examinations. While DSA can identify major findings, selective angiography is better for detailed diagnosis, especially for small or pre-operative cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Cervicocranial vascular malformations require accurate diagnostic imaging.
- Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is a key tool for visualizing these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic yield of DSA in detecting cervicocranial intracranial vascular malformations.
- To compare the effectiveness of different DSA approaches for diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 350 DSA examinations in the cervicocranial region.
- Categorization of detected vascular malformations (aneurysm, arteriovenous, venous).
- Comparison of intravenous/intra-aortal versus selective DSA techniques.
Main Results:
- Intracranial vascular malformations were identified in 14 patients (4% of 350 examinations).
- Detected malformations included aneurysms (6), arteriovenous malformations (6), and venous malformations (2).
- Intravenous/intra-aortal DSA was sufficient for major findings, but selective DSA provided more detailed diagnostic information.
Conclusions:
- DSA is effective in detecting cervicocranial intracranial vascular malformations.
- Selective DSA is superior to non-selective methods for detailed pre-operative and small lesion diagnosis.
Abstract:
From a total number of 350 DSA examinations in the cervicocranial region intracranial vascular malformations were detected in 14 patients, i.e. in 4%. In six instances an aneurysm was involved, six times arteriovenous and twice a venous malformation. Using digital subtraction angiography, it is usually possible to diagnose by the intravenous or intraaortal route major findings, however, in the majority the finding serves only for orientation. For a more detailed diagnosis, in particular of small findings and findings before operation, a selective examination is more suitable.
