Implementation and Rationale for a Unified Clinical and Imaging Protocol for Evaluation and Treatment of Moyamoya
Anthony S Larson1, Vance T Lehman1, Luis E Savastano2
1Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States.
Abstract:
Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a complex and incompletely-understood cerebrovascular pathological entity that requires thorough clinical and imaging evaluation. Moyamoya is rare, thereby making the establishment of an effective, thorough and interdisciplinary patient evaluation protocol challenging, even within specialized referral centers. Nevertheless, implementation of such a protocol is crucial in order to provide the best possible evaluation and treatment for MMD patients. Here, we describe our institution's implementation of, rationale for, and experience with a comprehensive multidisciplinary collaboration and evaluation strategy for adult patients with moyamoya. This evaluation course consists of, first of all, a thorough clinical and laboratory evaluation with a vascular neurologist. This is followed by a comprehensive imaging assessment which evaluates angiographic and parenchymal features, in addition to cerebrovascular functionality. Finally, appropriate referrals are made to consulting services as indicated, which includes vascular neurosurgery. These steps are described in detail herein.
Insights
Moyamoya disease (MMD) evaluation is complex due to its rarity. This study details a comprehensive, multidisciplinary protocol to improve patient assessment and care for Moyamoya disease.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare, complex cerebrovascular disorder.
- Establishing effective evaluation protocols for MMD is challenging, even at specialized centers.
- A structured, multidisciplinary approach is crucial for optimal MMD patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the implementation and rationale of a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation strategy for adult Moyamoya disease patients.
- To outline a detailed protocol for the thorough clinical, imaging, and referral process in MMD.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a multidisciplinary collaboration and evaluation strategy.
- Initial thorough clinical and laboratory assessment by a vascular neurologist.
- Comprehensive imaging evaluation including angiographic, parenchymal, and cerebrovascular functionality assessment.
- Referrals to specialized consulting services, including vascular neurosurgery.
Main Results:
- The described protocol facilitates a systematic and thorough evaluation of adult Moyamoya disease patients.
- Integration of clinical, imaging, and surgical expertise ensures comprehensive patient assessment.
- The strategy aims to optimize diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning for MMD.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluation protocol is essential for managing Moyamoya disease.
- This structured approach enhances the evaluation and treatment of adult MMD patients.
- The described strategy provides a model for specialized centers dealing with rare cerebrovascular conditions.
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