About Vertebral Artery Dissection
Key Highlights
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Addresses a critical, stroke-causing condition by repairing the damaged vertebral artery.Helps restore normal blood flow to the brainstem and cerebellum, preventing further neurological damage.Can be performed using minimally invasive endovascular techniques (stenting) in suitable cases, potentially reducing recovery time.Aims to alleviate severe symptoms like headache, vertigo, and neurological deficits.Performed by specialized neurosurgeons or vascular surgeons with expertise in complex cerebrovascular anatomy.
Who is this surgery for?
- Confirmed vertebral artery dissection with significant stenosis (narrowing) or occlusion that poses a high risk of stroke.
- Dissection causing recurrent transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or minor strokes despite optimal medical therapy (e.g., blood thinners).
- Progressive neurological symptoms, such as worsening vertigo, ataxia (loss of coordination), or visual disturbances, linked to the dissection.
- Traumatic vertebral artery dissection from an injury, such as from a car accident or chiropractic manipulation.
- Dissection associated with a pseudoaneurysm (a contained rupture) that is at risk of expanding or rupturing.
- Failure of conservative management with anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive diagnostic imaging, including MRI/MRA, CT angiography, or cerebral angiography, to precisely locate and assess the dissection.
- Neurological evaluation to document baseline function and symptoms.
- Pre-operative blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray to assess overall fitness for surgery.
- Discussion and management of current medications, especially blood thinners, which may need to be stopped before the procedure.
- Informed consent process detailing the risks, benefits, and alternatives to the surgical intervention.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure as instructed by the surgical team.
Risks & possible complications
- Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) during or after the procedure.
- Bleeding or hematoma at the surgical site or within the brain.
- Infection at the incision site or, rarely, meningitis.
- Damage to nearby nerves, which could lead to hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, or shoulder weakness.
- Artery re-narrowing (restenosis) or thrombosis (clot formation) at the repair site.
- Allergic reaction to contrast dye used in imaging or to anesthesia.
- General risks of anesthesia.
- In endovascular procedures, risks include vessel injury, dissection extension, or stent migration.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial monitoring in an intensive care unit (ICU) or high-dependency unit for 24-48 hours to watch for neurological changes or complications.
- Management of pain and nausea with appropriate medications.
- Gradual mobilization as tolerated, often starting the day after surgery.
- Continuation of blood-thinning medications (antiplatelets or anticoagulants) as prescribed to prevent clot formation.
- Follow-up imaging, such as an MRA or CTA, to confirm the success of the repair and patency of the artery.
- Restrictions on strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and certain neck movements for several weeks.
- Outpatient rehabilitation, including physical or occupational therapy, may be recommended to address any residual neurological deficits.
- Regular follow-up appointments with the neurosurgeon and neurologist for long-term management.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering vertebral artery dissection in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for vertebral artery dissection in India include Miot Hospital Chennai, Manipal Hospital Rangapani, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform vertebral artery dissection. MediFyr helps you compare spine surgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for vertebral artery dissection compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Vertebral Artery Dissection in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated spine surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing vertebral artery dissection.
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Spine surgeons for Vertebral Artery Dissection
Explore experienced spine surgeons who regularly perform vertebral artery dissection and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
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