Laurence D. Cromwell

Three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography in the preoperative evaluation of cerebrovascular lesions.

Although three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography was developed as a screening tool for use in patients with suspected cerebrovascular disease, this imaging modality has also proven to be of value in surgical planning for patients with large or unusual vascular lesions of the brain. The three-dimensional images generated by this technique yield valuable information regarding the size and configuration of intracranial aneurysms and vascular malformations, the presence and extent of intra-aneurysmal thrombus, the relationship of the vascular lesion to other cerebrovascular or skeletal structures, aneurysm wall thickness, and the presence and orientation of an aneurysm neck. The use of three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography in representative cases of patients with large or unusual cerebrovascular lesions is presented. It has been our experience that this imaging modality displays anatomical information that is not readily available from standard, intra-arterial angiography, provides better detail for surgical planning than magnetic resonance angiography, and is less expensive than either of these other imaging modalities.

Cyanoacrylate occlusion of carotid-cavernous fistula with preservation of carotid artery flow.

We report a new treatment for carotid-cavernous fistula. Using a flow-guided, balloon-tipped microcatheter, we catheterize the fistula itself, verify balloon entry into the fistula with fluoroscopy and x-ray films, and then infuse the tissue adhesive isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate with careful fluoroscopic control. Three patients have had their fistulas occluded, with preservation of flow through the internal carotid artery. This balloon microcatheter allows the radiologist to perform a reversible test occlusion. All three patients had neurological changes during or after the procedure, and in one we inadvertently occluded several distal middle cerebral artery branches without permanent neurological deficit. No patient became blind or developed 3rd, 4th, or 6th nerve palsy from the treatment. This technique seems to have promise as another method for the obliteration of carotid-cavernous fistula.

Duplication of the internal carotid artery.

SummaryThe angiographic appearance of a duplicated internal carotid artery is described.

Experimental carotid aneurysms: Part 2. Endovascular treatment with cyanoacrylate.

Using our modification of the vein patch technique, we created 16 aneurysms in the common carotid arteries of dogs. After a stabilizing and healing period, these aneurysms were treated using percutaneous catheter techniques. Coaxial microcatheters were placed into the aneurysms, and a mixture of isobutyl 2-cyanoacrylate and tantalum dust was infused through the microcatheter using real time fluoroscopic control. Fifteen of the 16 aneurysms were successfully occluded; 1 was a failure because of total occlusion of the carotid artery. One human facial artery aneurysm was similarly treated. The ease and technical details of the treatment are discussed. Although the results are encouraging, we believe that it would be prudent to broaden the animal experimentation rather than to begin human use. Because no experimental aneurysm models are yet physiological, our results must be applied with caution to human intracranial aneurysms.

Spinal Cord Compression by Extramedullary Hematopoiesis in Agnogenic Myeloid Metaplasia

Extramedullary hematopoiesis presented as a diffuse mass causing almost complete obliteration of the spinal subarachnoid space in a patient with known agnogenic myeloid metaplasia. Pre- and post-radiation therapy films correlate well with significant clinical improvement in his neurological status.

Presurgical embolization of neurogenic hamartoma in an infant. A case report.

The vessels supplying a rare congenital tumor (neurogenic hamartoma) were deliberately occluded by emboli. This extensive tumor presented both in the oropharynx and in the left middle cranial fossa. Using a 3.7 French catheter, Gelfoam emboli suspended in contrast medium were injected into the vessels of the tumor under fluoroscopic visualization. The once vacular tumor was then removed in two stages with little blood loss.

Selective carotid angiography in the diagnosis of fibrous histiocytoma. A case report.

Selective carotid angiography is of value in the diagnosis of an orbital fibrous histiocytoma, an uncommon tumor with a high local recurrence rate and frequent distant metastases. The angiogram shows the physical extent of the tumor and also suggests its general microscopic anatomy. Comparison is made with similar angiographic presentations seen in cerebellar hemangioblastomas, glomus tumors, meningiomas, and hemangiopericytomas.