Revascularization of Onyx induced intra-operative occlusion of vertebro-basilar artery using the Merci device.
BACKGROUND
Endovascular embolization is an important modality in the treatment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Onyx is an ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide that is approved for use as an embolic agent for brain AVMs.


METHODS
We describe a case of revascularization of an occluded vertebro-basilar artery during embolization of an AVM with Onyx, by using the Merci device.


CONCLUSIONS
Reflux embolization of patent vessels is a rare complication of using Onyx to treat AVMs. It can be successfully managed by retrieving the Onyx substance using mechanical retrieval devices like the Merci device.
Department of Neurology, 7135 University Hospital, Upstate Medical University, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
Shon G
SG
Michael
Amar S
AS
Swarnkar
Julius Gene S
JG
Latorre
Tarakad S
TS
Ramachandran
Yahia M
YM
Lodi
D000368:Aged; D002533:Cerebral Angiography; D002548:Cerebral Revascularization / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004121:Dimethyl Sulfoxide / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011145:Polyvinyls / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014715:Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy*
D011145:Polyvinyls; D004121:Dimethyl Sulfoxide