Recurrence of cervical artery dissection: protocol for a systematic review
Elizabeth Lounsbury1, Brian Dewar2, Alexandra Davis3
1Neurology, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada elounsbury@toh.ca.
BMJ Open
|September 15, 2020
Summary
This systematic review examines the risk of recurrent cervical artery dissection after an initial event. Findings will inform discussions on safe return to physical activity following dissection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Cervical artery dissection (CAD), including carotid and vertebral artery dissection, is a significant cause of stroke in young adults.
- Physical activity is associated with CAD, likely due to minor trauma and mechanical stress on cervical arteries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize data on the risk of recurrent cervical artery dissection (CAD) after an initial event.
- To enhance understanding of CAD's natural history.
- To guide evidence-based recommendations for safe return to activity post-dissection.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive search of multiple electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science) up to November 13, 2019.
- Screening of studies by two independent reviewers to determine eligibility.
- Quantitative analysis of pooled data to determine the 5-year risk of recurrent CAD.
Main Results:
- Data synthesis on recurrent cervical artery dissection risk.
- Identification of factors influencing recurrence.
- Estimation of the 5-year risk of recurrent CAD.
Conclusions:
- Recurrent cervical artery dissection risk requires further investigation.
- Understanding recurrence informs patient management and return-to-activity guidelines.
- This review provides crucial data for evidence-based clinical decision-making.
