Watershed infarction of spinal cord after the embolization of bronchial artery: a case report

A case of watershed infarction in the spinal cord is reported. The patient underwent bronchial artery embolization for control of massive hemoptysis. The bronchial arteriogram was carefully examined and focused on blood supply to the spinal cord prior to embolization. Acute paraparesis followed the embolization procedure even though there was no visible spinal supply on the arteriogram. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a hyperintensity lesion over the watershed region which is located at the central portion of the upper thoracic cord. This case is reported to emphasize the significant role which angiographically invisible small vessels can play in the blood supply to the spinal cord. The vascular system of the spinal cord and the prevention of spinal cord ischemia secondary to embolization are further discussed here.