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Published on: September 9, 2011
Pipeline embolization device: a new source for embolic retinal vascular occlusion
Adam B Sise1, James M Osher, Martin P Kolsky
1Department of Ophthalmology (ABS), Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia; Medstar Washington Hospital Center (ABS, JMO, MPK), Washington, District of Columbia; The Retina Group of Washington (JMO, RAG), Chevy Chase, Maryland; Cincinnati Eye Institute (JMO), Cincinnati, Ohio; and Neurointerventional Service (AS, WOB), Medstar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
A Pipeline embolization device was used to treat a brain aneurysm, but the patient later developed vision loss due to retinal artery occlusions. This highlights a rare but serious complication of this endovascular technique.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Intracranial aneurysms pose significant risks, necessitating advanced treatment modalities.
- Endovascular techniques, such as the Pipeline embolization device, offer minimally invasive options for aneurysm repair.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old woman received treatment for a left internal carotid artery aneurysm using a Pipeline embolization device.
- Post-procedure, the patient presented with multiple branch retinal artery occlusions in the ipsilateral eye.
Findings:
- The occurrence of branch retinal artery occlusions is a rare but documented ophthalmic complication following Pipeline embolization.
- The precise mechanism linking Pipeline embolization to retinal artery occlusion requires further investigation.
Implications:
- Ophthalmologists and neurosurgeons should be aware of potential visual disturbances after Pipeline embolization.
- Careful patient selection and monitoring may be crucial to mitigate risks associated with this endovascular treatment.
