Popliteal artery occlusion as a late complication of liquid acrylate embolization for cerebral vascular malformation

Occlusion of arteriovenous malformations of the brain (BAVMs) by means of a n endovascular approach with liquid acrylate glue is an established treatme nt modality. The specific hazards of this procedure are related to the cent ral nervous system. In the case of unexpectedly rapid polymerization of the cyanoacrylate glue and adhesion of the delivering microcatheter to the BAV M, severing the catheter at the site of vascular access is considered an ac ceptable and safe management. We present a unique complication related to t his technique that has not been described yet. Fragmentation and migration of the microcatheter, originally left in place, had caused popliteal artery occlusion, which required saphenous vein interposition, in a 25-year-old m an. Suggestions for avoiding this complication are discussed.