Vertebrobasilar Syndrome in Nice
Dr. Ilya Khantalin, Vascular Surgeon in Alpes-Maritimes
Vertebrobasilar Syndrome
Dr. Ilya Khantalin in Nice
Vertebrobasilar syndrome (VBS) is a serious condition caused by insufficient blood flow in the vertebrobasilar system, which supplies blood to the brainstem, cerebellum, and certain deep brain regions. This syndrome occurs when the vertebral arteries and the basilar artery—critical for oxygenating these brain areas—are partially or completely obstructed.
Arterial diseases are now managed using modern techniques validated by the French National Authority for Health (HAS), focusing on innovation while respecting recognized surgical protocols.
Vascular diseases are recognized as Long-Term Conditions (ALD), allowing 100% coverage by French Social Security.
What is vertebrobasilar syndrome?
Vascular Surgeon in Saint-Laurent-Du-Var
Vertebrobasilar syndrome occurs when blood flow is disrupted in the vertebral arteries (which run along the spine and supply the brain) and the basilar artery (formed by the joining of the two vertebral arteries). These arteries are essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to vital brain structures, including the brainstem, which controls many essential functions such as breathing, heart rate, and balance.
Symptoms of vertebrobasilar syndrome vary depending on the exact affected area and commonly include:
- Dizziness and balance disorders: often sudden, possibly accompanied by spinning sensations, disorientation, or even falls.
- Visual disturbances: double vision, blurred vision, or vision loss in severe cases.
- Difficulty speaking and swallowing: speech and swallowing impairments are common.
- Weakness or paralysis: some patients experience muscle weakness or temporary paralysis.
Diagnosis and treatment of vertebrobasilar syndrome
Specialist in vascular surgery in Saint-Laurent-Du-Var
Causes and risk factors
Vertebrobasilar syndrome is generally caused by arterial damage, often linked to:
- Atherosclerosis: plaque buildup in arteries that can reduce or block blood flow.
- Embolisms: blood clots or fragments of plaques that migrate and obstruct the vertebral or basilar arteries.
- Cervical trauma: neck injuries can damage vertebral arteries.
- Congenital anomalies: some people are born with artery abnormalities making them more susceptible.
Risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol increase the likelihood of arterial obstruction.
Available treatments for vertebrobasilar syndrome
Medical treatments
For patients with mild or moderate symptoms, medication may suffice. Common drugs include:
- Antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin) to reduce clot formation risk.
- Anticoagulants to prevent embolisms and maintain blood flow.
- Antihypertensive and cholesterol-lowering medications to control blood pressure and limit atherosclerosis progression.
Surgical and interventional treatments
In severe cases, where stenosis is significant, occlusion occurs, or medications fail, surgical or endovascular interventions may be considered:
- Angioplasty with stent placement: dilating the blocked artery with a balloon and placing a stent to keep it open.
- Mechanical thrombectomy: directly removing the clot obstructing the artery, often performed urgently during severe acute symptoms.
- Arterial bypass surgery: creating a bypass to circumvent the obstructed zone and restore circulation.
- Subclavian artery transposition to the common carotid artery.
Rehabilitation and associated therapies
Post-intervention, rehabilitation may be needed to help patients regain balance, coordination, and muscle strength. Cardiovascular rehabilitation is also often recommended to improve overall arterial health.
Indications and treatment criteria
Treatment choice depends on:
- Symptom severity: frequent dizziness, visual disturbances, or recurrent weakness often call for more aggressive treatment.
- Patient’s general condition and medical history: those with prior strokes or advanced atherosclerosis usually require specialized management.
- Location and nature of the obstruction: medical imaging (MRI, MRA) identifies the precise affected area to tailor treatment.
Follow-up and prevention after treatment
Regular medical follow-up is essential to monitor blood flow evolution and prevent recurrence. This typically includes:
- Routine consultations with the vascular surgeon to assess arterial circulation and adjust treatment.
- Imaging follow-up (MRI or Doppler ultrasound) to verify treatment effectiveness and detect recurrences.
- Risk factor monitoring: controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar is vital.
Prevention plays a major role and patients are advised to:
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle: regular exercise and a diet high in fiber and low in saturated fats.
- Quit smoking: smoking is a major risk factor for vascular disease.
- Monitor and manage other risk factors: such as hypertension and diabetes, following medical advice closely.
Vertebrobasilar syndrome requires prompt and appropriate management to avoid serious complications like strokes. Thanks to specialized care and various treatment options, normal blood flow in the vertebral and basilar arteries can be restored, reducing recurrence risks.
If you experience symptoms suggestive of vertebrobasilar syndrome or have cardiovascular risk factors, do not hesitate to consult.