Intermittent balloon occlusion to favor nidal penetration during embolization of arteriovenous malformations: a technique modification

J Neurointerv Surg. 2014 May;6(4):e28. doi: 10.1136/neurintsurg-2012-010637.rep. Epub 2013 Aug 13.

Abstract

Endovascular embolization of brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) has improved with liquid occlusive agents, but flow-related and anatomic restrictions limit endovascular capabilities. AVM compartments supplied by leptomeningeal networks and feeding arteries too small and/or tortuous for safe catheterization are rarely penetrated by liquid occlusive agents. A case with both impediments prompted a novel solution. A balloon was inflated across the supply to a lenticulostriate feeder, thereby favoring penetration of the liquid occlusive agent, injected from a different feeding territory, back into the AVM compartment supplied by the temporarily occluded feeder. This technique may reduce the number of embolization stages in large high-flow AVMs and increase the likelihood of achieving complete occlusion. This technique is highly complex and requires meticulous monitoring of multiple events.

Keywords: Arteriovenous Malformation; Balloon; Brain; Intervention; Liquid Embolic Material.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Arteriovenous Fistula / diagnosis
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / diagnostic imaging
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / therapy*
  • Balloon Occlusion / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / diagnosis
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / diagnostic imaging
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / therapy*
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography
  • Neuroimaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Young Adult