Cervical artery dissection related to chiropractic manipulation: One institution's experience

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Vascular Medicine
• Chiropractic Medicine

Background:

• Cervical artery dissection (CAD) is a leading cause of stroke in young adults.
• The association between chiropractic neck manipulation and CAD remains a subject of clinical discussion and research.
• Understanding the incidence of CAD following chiropractic manipulation is crucial for patient safety and informed consent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of cervical artery dissection (CAD) in patients who underwent chiropractic neck manipulation.
• To evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications associated with CAD following chiropractic manipulation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with cervical artery dissection between April 2008 and March 2012.
• Confirmation of CAD and stroke via review of imaging studies by a neuroradiologist.
• Telephone interviews to assess residual symptoms in affected patients.

Main Results:

• Twelve out of 141 patients with cervical artery dissection reported recent chiropractic neck manipulation.
• These 12 patients experienced a total of 16 cervical artery dissections and all developed acute stroke symptoms.
• Follow-up data revealed that 8 of 9 patients had residual symptoms, and one patient died.

Conclusions:

• A notable number of cervical artery dissection cases were linked to recent chiropractic neck manipulation.
• Patients considering chiropractic manipulation should be aware of the potential risk of cervical artery dissection and stroke.
• Prompt medical attention is advised for individuals experiencing stroke symptoms after chiropractic neck manipulation.