Spontaneous Vertebral Artery Dissection (SVAD) is a medical condition characterized by a tear or rupture in the walls of the vertebral artery, which is located in the neck and supplies blood to the brain. This condition is considered spontaneous because it typically occurs without any external traumatic injury or other underlying cause.
The vertebral artery dissection is believed to occur due to a tear in the inner lining, called the intima, of the artery. This tear can result in blood seeping into the wall of the artery, causing it to become dilated or form a blood clot. The blood clot may partially or completely block the artery, reducing blood flow to the brain. In some cases, the dissection can also cause the artery to narrow or collapse.
SVAD is often associated with sudden and severe headaches, neck pain, and dizziness or vertigo. Other symptoms may include difficulty speaking or swallowing, visual disturbances, and numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or legs. In rare cases, SVAD can lead to a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke.
Diagnosis of SVAD typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, neuroimaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography angiography (CTA), or digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Treatment may involve medications to prevent blood clots, pain management, and in severe cases, surgery or endovascular procedures to repair the damaged artery.
SVAD is a relatively uncommon condition, making up a small percentage of all strokes. However, it is important to recognize the symptoms and seek medical attention promptly, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent potential complications.
