Microvascular decompression of the optic chiasm. Case report

J Neurosurg. 2011 Mar;114(3):857-60. doi: 10.3171/2009.9.JNS081658. Epub 2009 Oct 23.

Abstract

Elongation of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) and subsequent compression of the chiasm rarely have been reported as causes of a visual field deficit. Neither has microvascular decompression of the chiasm been described in this circumstance. The authors report on a case of progressive visual deficits caused by compression of the optic apparatus by a right elongated ACA as documented on MR imaging. Microvascular decompression was proposed as treatment. The right A(1) segment was larger than usual and tortuous, transmitting its pulsations into the chiasm. A piece of Teflon was inserted between the A(1) segment and the chiasm. Following surgery, the visual field deficit progressively improved. At 4 months after surgery, the patient's visual fields were normal. Therefore, an elongated ACA can compress the chiasm and result in a visual field deficit. In such circumstances when facing a progressive visual field deficit, microvascular decompression may improve vision.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anterior Cerebral Artery / abnormalities
  • Anterior Cerebral Artery / surgery
  • Decompression, Surgical / methods*
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure / physiology
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Optic Chiasm / pathology
  • Optic Chiasm / surgery*
  • Vascular Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Vision Disorders / etiology
  • Vision Disorders / surgery
  • Vision Tests
  • Visual Acuity
  • Visual Fields