Rasche retrograde Füllung embolisch verschlossener Äste der Arteria cerebri media über leptomeningeale Anastomosen im Karotisangiogramm

Anatomy and functionality of leptomeningeal anastomoses: a review

BACKGROUND

This review seeks to provide a structured presentation of existing knowledge of leptomeningeal anastomoses from anatomic and functional points of view and to identify problems and possible research directions to foster a better understanding of the subject and of stroke mechanisms.

SUMMARY OF REVIEW

Available data show that leptomeningeal anastomoses may be important in understanding stroke mechanisms and that leptomeningeal anastomoses play an important role in penumbra outcome. However, the literature shows no consensus between statements on the existence of leptomeningeal anastomoses and compensatory capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

By analyzing the available literature and identifying the factors that contribute to this confusion, we found that variability and the functional consequences thereof are important but that quantitative data are lacking. Moreover, vascular remodeling is an issue to consider.

Spontaneous bilateral recanalization in bilateral internal carotid artery occlusion

The authors report a young woman with bilateral internal carotid artery occlusion shown by carotid angiography. There was spontaneous bilateral recanalization demonstrated radiographically. The possible causes, e.g. the intake of oral contraceptive drugs, a spontaneous intimal dissection and other etiological features are discussed and the literature is reviewed.