REPOSITIONING OF THE VERTEBRAL ARTERY AS TREATMENT FOR NEUROVASCULAR COMPRESSION SYNDROMES - TECHNICAL NOTE

Neurovascular compression syndromes are usually treated by interposing Teflon felt or padding or some other implant between the offending ve ssel and the nerves. However, this cannot be done in some cases in whi ch ectatic vertebrobasilar arteries are involved. In these instances, alternative techniques must be used. The authors report the use of a s ling made of Prolene to reposition the vertebral surgery in two patien ts with neurovascular compression disorder. The clinical results were gratifying, with complete resolution of the patients' symptoms. Compre ssion by large vessels is an uncommon but important source of neurovas cular compression in patients with trigeminal neuralgia, hemifacial sp asm, disabling positional vertigo, and, possibly, hypertension. The te chnique described may be useful to surgeons treating these problems.