Sacrificing the superior petrosal vein during microvascular decompression. Is it safe? Learning the hard way. Case report and review of literature.

CONCLUSION: Despite rare, venous infarction after venous sacrifice in MVD is possible and can have catastrophic consequences. We would advise: (1) To try preserving the vein anytime this is possible, especially if it is large in size; (2) if it is decided to sacrifice the vein temporary occlusion while observing changed in the neurophysiology might be safer; (3) when planning an MVD for suspected venous compression, possible alternative forms of treatment should also be considered. PMID: 27313970 [PubMed]
Source: Surgical Neurology International - Category: Neurosurgery Tags: Surg Neurol Int Source Type: research