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.
Michael
Shon G
SG
Department of Neurology, 7135 University Hospital, Upstate Medical University, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
Swarnkar
Amar S
AS
Latorre
Julius Gene S
JG
Ramachandran
Tarakad S
TS
Lodi
Yahia M
YM
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